Uzbekistan opens U-17 World Cup with a victory

On November 5, Uzbekistan’s U-17 national football team played its first match at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, currently taking place in Qatar. The young Uzbek squad secured a 2–1 win over Paraguay.

In the first half, Uzbekistan dominated possession, passing, and shots. In the 25th minute, Azizbek Abdumuminov opened the scoring with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area following a pass from Abubakr Shukurullaev. In added time of the first half (45+2), Abdumuminov doubled the lead after a precise assist from Muhammadali Musakhonov.

With a two-goal advantage, Islambek Ismoilov’s side managed the second half more calmly. Paraguay reduced the deficit in the 89th minute through a penalty, but it was too late to change the outcome. Uzbekistan’s U-17 team thus began their World Cup campaign with a well-deserved victory.

In the other Group “G” match, Ireland defeated Panama 4–1 to take the top spot in the group. Uzbekistan will face Ireland in the second round on November 8.

For reference, in the U-17 World Cup, the top two teams from each of the 12 groups advance directly to the knockout stage, along with the eight best third-placed teams.