On June 5 Uzbekistan secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a draw against the UAE. It will be the country's first appearance at the tournament since independence in 1991, and Uzbekistan becomes the first Central Asian and the third former Soviet state to qualify. The national side, nicknamed the White Wolves, had come close before: campaigns in 2006, 2014 and 2018 ended in narrow defeats to Bahrain and South Korea where an extra goal would have sent them through.
The recent success follows stronger youth results. Uzbekistan’s U-23 team took part in the 2024 Olympic football tournament in Paris, the country's first Olympic football appearance. The youth sides also won the 2023 U-20 Asian Cup and the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup. Videos and a documentary have shown celebrations in Tashkent and the rising profile of Uzbek players.
Reforms that began in 2019 with a Concept for the Development of Football until 2030 aimed to change how professional and amateur football are run. The plan included popularising the game, introducing VAR, increasing academies and improving scouting and talent development. Officials say these results reflect planned reforms. On June 10 the president met the team, presented awards and cars, and praised the players.
Difficult words
- secure — obtain or achieve something importantsecured
- qualification — success in meeting entry requirements for competition
- appearance — act of appearing at an event or competition
- campaign — series of organised matches or effortscampaigns
- narrow — small in difference or amount
- youth — young people as a group in sport
- reform — change to improve a system or practicereforms
- academy — school or program for training playersacademies
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think the changes since 2019 (academies, scouting, VAR) helped Uzbekistan’s teams? Give one or two reasons.
- What effects might the first World Cup appearance have on football and players in Uzbekistan?
- Have you seen any examples in your country where youth team success improved the senior national team? Describe briefly.
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