World Cup History
Uzbekistan has never participated in a World Cup. Since their independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Uzbek national team has been part of the AFC but has never managed to complete the qualification process to reach the final tournament.
However, Uzbekistan has a respectable regional record: they have won the AFC U-23 championship and have shown competitive levels at Asian Cups. The current generation, with Shomurodov in Europe and other players in top Asian leagues, is the closest they have ever been to achieving first-ever historical qualification. For the 2026 World Cup, Uzbekistan has the best opportunity in their history.
Key Players
Eldor Shomurodov
Centre Forward 路 AS Roma
The most well-known Uzbek player in European football. Shomurodov has played at Genoa and AS Roma in Italian Serie A, proving that Uzbek football can produce European-level players. He is the national team's top scorer and offensive reference.
Jaloliddin Masharipov
Attacking Midfielder / Winger 路 Pakhtakor
One of Uzbekistan's most creative and technical players. Masharipov is known for his dribbling ability and chance creation, being one of the most important pieces in the Uzbek national team's offensive system.
Jasur Jalolov
Forward 路 Pakhtakor
A forward with great effectiveness in front of goal. Jalolov is one of the top scorers in the Uzbek Super League and has demonstrated his level in AFC qualifying matches, being a complementary piece alongside Shomurodov.
Otabek Shukurov
Centre-back 路 Pakhtakor
Uzbekistan's defensive cornerstone. Shukurov is known for his physical strength, leadership ability, and consistency in qualifying matches, being one of the most respected defenders in Asian football.
Sanjar Tursunov
Goalkeeper 路 Nasaf
Uzbekistan's first-choice goalkeeper, known for his decisive interventions in qualifying matches. Tursunov has been key in maintaining the team's defensive solidity at the most critical moments.
Path to Qualification
Uzbekistan seeks to qualify for the 2026 World Cup through the AFC third round of qualifying. With 8 direct AFC spots for 2026, qualification possibilities are the best in Uzbek football history. The team has demonstrated in recent qualifying campaigns that it can compete with Asian powers.
If Uzbekistan qualifies, it would be the first Central Asian country to do so in the modern era, representing an enormous milestone for the region's football. Check out our host cities guide to plan your World Cup trip: /es/ciudades/
Match Schedule
Uzbekistan's matches at the 2026 World Cup will be confirmed by FIFA after the official draw. Check back soon for the complete schedule with dates, venues, and times. Meanwhile, check out our host cities guide to plan your World Cup trip: /es/ciudades/
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Uzbekistan ever qualified for the World Cup?
No, Uzbekistan has never participated in a World Cup. The 2026 World Cup represents their first and best historical opportunity, with the greatest number of spots for Asia (8 direct) and the most talented Uzbek generation in history.
Who are the best Uzbek players currently?
The most well-known Uzbek player is Eldor Shomurodov, a forward at AS Roma in Italian Serie A. Alongside him, Jaloliddin Masharipov (Pakhtakor) is the team's creative force. Both form the attacking core of a team aspiring to its first World Cup qualification.
Why would it be historic if Uzbekistan qualifies for the World Cup?
It would be the first time in history that Uzbekistan participates in a World Cup since their independence in 1991. Additionally, it would be the first Central Asian country (alongside Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan) to qualify for the tournament, representing an entire emerging football region.