TASHKENT, Uzbekistan – Podrobno.uz. Former Uzbekistan national team head coach Valeriy Nepomnyashchiy believes the team can pull off a surprise at the upcoming World Cup, but their chances of advancing from the group stage remain low.

Uzbekistan will make its debut at the FIFA World Cup, to be held from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the group stage, the team will face Portugal, Colombia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Nepomnyashchiy noted that reaching the tournament is already a historic achievement. He stressed that the opponents have incomparable tournament experience, and Portugal and Colombia are the clear favorites to progress.

"I think Uzbekistan cannot count on much, but they are capable of springing a surprise, slamming the door and pinching someone. I doubt they will advance from the group. Portugal and Colombia will go through," the specialist said.

However, Nepomnyashchiy did not rule out an unexpected scenario where the team finishes third in the group and shines in at least one match.

Uzbekistan's World Cup debut is already a historic event, and experts expect the team to leave a mark even if they fail to reach the knockout stage.

Earlier, Nepomnyashchiy commented on the team's first-ever qualification for the world championship. He believes talented players have always been in the country, and their participation is no coincidence.

Source: podrobno.uz