Shomurodov names reason for Uzbekistan’s World Cup defeat

Uzbekistan national team forward Eldor Shomurodov commented on the reasons for the team’s defeat against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final round of the World Cup group stage.

Earlier, it was reported that Uzbekistan lost 3-1 to DR Congo in the decisive group-stage match and ended its World Cup campaign without reaching the playoffs.

“It all comes down to psychology. Once you are ahead in the score, you start thinking more about maintaining the lead and not conceding. Mistakes happen at such moments. We were not able to control the ball well and made unnecessary mistakes. I think the opponent made good use of those mistakes,” Shomurodov said in an interview with journalists after the match.

Uzbekistan national team took part in the final stage of the World Cup for the first time in history. The team lost to Colombia (1-3), Portugal (0-5) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (1-3) in the group stage, ending its participation in the tournament at that stage.

For reference, the 2026 World Cup is being held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the tournament will conclude on July 19 this year.