World Cup 2026: Uzbekistan hosts Kyrgyzstan in pivotal clash

Today marks the start of FIFA international match days, with national teams worldwide competing. While European teams will battle in the Nations League, Asian teams are set for the 7th round of the third stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. For Uzbek football fans, the spotlight is on the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan match.

Team Opportunities

Kyrgyzstan enters as the underdog, having secured just 1 win and 3 points after six rounds, placing 5th in the group. While their chances of qualifying for the World Cup are mathematically possible, the team must secure positive results in their remaining matches.

Uzbekistan, on the other hand, is in a strong position to qualify, holding 2nd place in the group with 13 points from four wins, one draw, and one loss. They are closely followed by the UAE with 10 points in 3rd place. A victory today would elevate Uzbekistan to 16 points, creating a favorable gap, especially if Iran defeats the UAE.

First Match Recap

The two teams first clashed on September 10, 2024, when Uzbekistan defeated Kyrgyzstan 3-2. The match showcased Kyrgyzstan's resilience, with goals from Joel Kojo and Odiljon Abdurahmonov. For Uzbekistan, Eldor Shomurodov, Husniddin Aliqulov, and Oston O‘runov secured the victory. With this history in mind, Kyrgyzstan is expected to put up a strong fight in today's rematch in Tashkent.

Uzbekistan’s Challenges

Uzbekistan faces notable absences due to injuries. Central defender Husniddin Alikulov and wing-back Sherzod Nasrullaev will miss the match. Head coach Temur Kapadze has called up Nasaf player G‘olib G‘aybullayev and winger Hojmat Erkinov as replacements. Midfielder Oston Urunov may also miss the match, leaving Kapadze with tactical challenges to overcome.

Predicted Lineups

According to QALAMPIR.UZ's predictions, the starting lineups could look as follows:

Uzbekistan: Utkir Yusupov, Abdulla Abdullaev, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Farrukh Sayfiev, Khojiakbar Alijonov, Otabek Shukurov, Odil Hamrobekov, Jaloliddin Masharipov, Abbos Fayzullaev, Eldor Shomurodov.

Kyrgyzstan: Tokotayev, Mishchenko, Brauzman, Kozubayev, Kichin, Kenjebayev, Abdurahmonov, Zaripbekov, Shukurov, Jirgalbek Uulu, Kojo.

The Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan match will take place today, March 20, at “Bunyodkor” Stadium in Tashkent. The game is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM local time as part of the 7th round of qualifiers.