Former Uzbekistan national team midfielder Sanjar Tursunov, in an exclusive interview with Podrobno.uz, shared his thoughts on the team's crushing 0-5 defeat to Portugal and assessed their chances ahead of the decisive group stage match against DR Congo.
Tursunov emphasized the need for the team to prove their level in every game. "We can beat Congo, so we cannot relax or give up. We must go out, show our football, and achieve a result. It's important to be psychologically prepared and not dwell on past defeats," he said.
The ex-footballer watched the Portugal match live at the stadium. "The atmosphere was top-notch; it's the World Cup. For our fans, it's a huge event. Despite the opponent's strength, many came to support the team," he noted.
Regarding the turning point, Tursunov pointed to the early goal. "A quick goal changes the game completely. The team prepares one plan, but after such a goal, you have to play differently," he explained.
On the second goal from a set piece, he called it a 50-50 situation. "A set piece near the penalty area is one of the most dangerous moments. Here, the executioner's skill decided a lot. The Portuguese player struck very well," he said.
The disallowed goal by Aziz Ganiev could have altered the match. "If the goal had counted, at 2-1 we could have employed different tactics, and the team would have gained confidence. Such moments greatly affect psychology," Tursunov stated.
About 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo: "Ronaldo is on another level. He proves every day that even at 41, he can play and score at this level. He is a goal-scorer. We can only watch this phenomenon live."
Tursunov stressed that Portugal is stronger than Colombia and a title contender. "The score is large and unpleasant, but the class difference was evident to the naked eye," he said.
He singled out Eldor Shomurodov for praise. "He tried hard, held up the ball, made runs, and tried to help the team. It was clear he wanted to do something for the team until the end."
The main reasons for the defeat, according to Tursunov, are a combination of class difference, lack of experience, and psychology. "Portugal showed their skill, level, and pressing. This is a tough but important experience," he concluded.
Uzbekistan now faces DR Congo in their final group match. This game will determine whether the team can retain its character after two losses and finish the tournament with a fight rather than disappointment.
Source: podrobno.uz