Uzbekistan has officially submitted its squad of 26 players for the 2026 World Cup to FIFA. This selection marks a monumental milestone for the nation, as it prepares for its inaugural appearance in the World Cup. Led by head coach Fabio Cannavaro, the team has made strategic choices after noting the exclusion of four players from the preliminary roster of 30 who participated in the training camp in the United States.
Key Exclusions from the Pre-Selection
Among the players left out from the final squad are striker Sherzod Temirov and midfielders Jasur Jaloliddinov, Ruslanbek Jiyanov, and Umarali Rahmonaliyev. As these four players return home, the focus now turns to the 26 athletes selected to potentially make history. They will face tough competition in Group K, taking on Colombia, Portugal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Complete List of Uzbekistan’s Squad
Goalkeepers
Uzbekistan has chosen three capable goalkeepers:
- Otkir Yusupov (Navbahor)
- Botirali Ergashev (Neftchi)
- Abduvohid Nematov (Nasaf)
These players are crucial for laying a strong foundation in defense, and they will need to perform at their best to keep the team competitive.
Defenders
The defensive lineup consists of a blend of experience and youth, aimed at solidifying the backline:
- Avazbek O’lmasaliyev (OKMK)
- Jahongir O’rozov (Dinamo)
- Rustam Ashurmatov (Esteghlal, Iran)
- Umar Eshmurodov (Nasaf)
- Abdukodir Khusanov (Manchester City, England)
- Abdulla Abdullayev (Dibba, UAE)
- Farrukh Sayfiyev (Neftchi)
- Hojiakbar Alijonov (Pakhtakor)
- Sherzod Nasrullayev (Pakhtakor)
- Behruz Karimov (Surkhon)
Among these defenders, Abdukodir Khusanov, currently at Manchester City, stands out as a promising talent. His international experience could prove invaluable for the team.
Midfielders
The midfield is expected to be dynamic, with players capable of both defending and creating scoring opportunities:
- Sherzod Esanov (Bukhara)
- Odil Hamrobekov (Tractor, Iran)
- Akmal Mozgovoy (Pakhtakor)
- Otabek Shukurov (Baniyas, UAE)
- Jamshid Iskanderov (Neftchi)
- Aziz Ganiev (Al Bataeh, UAE)
These midfielders will be vital in transitioning play and controlling possession, crucial for Uzbekistan as they look to maximize their chances.
Attackers
The attacking line is packed with skilled players capable of making significant impacts in front of goal:
- Abbosbek Fayzullayev (Istanbul Basaksehir, Turkey)
- Jaloliddin Masharipov (Esteghlal, Iran)
- Doston Hamdamov (Pakhtakor)
- Oston Urunov (Persepolis, Iran)
- Aziz Amonov (Dinamo)
- Igor Sergeyev (Persepolis, Iran)
- Eldor Shomurodov (Istanbul Basaksehir, Turkey)
These attackers could be pivotal for Uzbekistan’s scoring ambitions as they face formidable opponents.
Conclusion
With a blend of seasoned playmakers and emerging stars like Abdukodir Khusanov, Uzbekistan’s squad is set to showcase its talent on the world stage. The 2026 World Cup will not only be a platform for individual players to shine but also a historic moment for Uzbek football. The national team aims to make their mark against strong teams in Group K, and football fans across the nation are keen to support them on this remarkable journey.