Uzbekistan at the 2026 World Cup: Central Asia’s Historic First
Uzbekistan at the 2026 World Cup begins with a 0-0 draw in Abu Dhabi on June 5, 2025 — a result sealed by goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov’s late save that sent the White Wolves to their first-ever finals. As the first Central Asian nation to qualify (and the third former Soviet republic after Russia and Ukraine), Uzbekistan enter Group K with Portugal, Colombia and the FIFA Play-Off Path 1 winner. Qualification was secured under Timur Kapadze, while Fabio Cannavaro takes charge at the finals, bringing World Cup-winning pedigree to a debut tournament that could redefine Central Asian football.