World Cup 2026: Uzbekistan defeats Kyrgyzstan in key match (photo report)

On March 20, Uzbekistan’s national football team hosted Kyrgyzstan in the 3rd stage of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Uzbekistan secured a narrow 1-0 victory, as captured in a photo report by QALAMPIR.UZ.

The first major moment of the game came in the 24th minute when Kyrgyzstan's defender fouled Hojiakbar Alijonov inside the penalty area. The referee awarded a penalty and showed a red card to the defender. However, Uzbekistan’s captain, Eldor Shomurodov, was unable to convert the penalty into a goal.

Later, in the 40th minute, Uzbekistan took the lead with a goal by Hojiakbar Alijonov after sustained pressure and attacking play. Early in the second half, Eldor Shomurodov found the net, but the goal was disallowed by the referee due to an offside call.

With this win, Uzbekistan strengthened its position in the group stage, accumulating 16 points and solidifying 2nd place. The next match is scheduled for March 25, where Uzbekistan will face group leader Iran in Tehran during the 8th round.