Uzbekistan's national football team concluded their debut World Cup campaign with a 1-3 defeat against DR Congo in the final group stage match. Despite the loss, the team displayed commendable football, creating chances and at times appearing closer to scoring a second goal than their opponents. The match was a must-win for both sides: Uzbekistan needed a victory to keep hopes of advancing alive, while DR Congo sought their first-ever knockout stage appearance.
From the opening minutes, Uzbekistan refused to play defensively, opting to control possession and apply pressure. Their unconventional style troubled DR Congo, with unpredictable ball movement and players taking initiative. The team fought for every ball, showing determination that belied their status as tournament debutants. The first goal epitomized this approach: Eldor Shomurodov coolly lobbed goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi after a swift counterattack, with Abbosbek Fayzullaev providing a clever assist.
The first half largely belonged to Uzbekistan. Khojiakbar Alijonov was active on the right flank, while Rustam Ashurmatov won crucial defensive duels. Shomurodov had several chances to extend the lead. However, after the break, DR Congo adjusted, increasing tempo and aggression. The introduction of Fiston Mayele proved pivotal, as the Congolese side began to dominate.
Midway through the second half, Uzbekistan's initiative waned. Fatigue set in, and the team resorted to long balls, leaving gaps between lines. Abdukodir Khusanov, one of Uzbekistan's most promising talents, endured a difficult match. A first-half yellow card for a risky tackle was followed by a second-half penalty conceded after another desperate challenge, allowing DR Congo to equalize. The 78th-minute goal by Mayele, who cut inside and fired past the goalkeeper, effectively sealed the game.
Coach Fabio Cannavaro, who faced criticism after previous matches, showed a different side in this game. He remained on the touchline throughout, constantly instructing players and reacting emotionally. His focus on Fayzullaev and Doston Khamdamov was evident. However, substitutions failed to maintain creativity, and the absence of Fayzullaev was felt as Uzbekistan's attacks became predictable.
DR Congo's third goal was particularly frustrating: Alijonov stopped playing, expecting the ball to go out, but a Congolese player kept it in play and set up the goal. Such lapses in concentration are unforgivable at this level. The final score of 1-3 may be remembered as a defeat, but those who watched the match will recall a team that dared to play, took risks, and competed against a physically superior opponent.
Perhaps the main takeaway from Uzbekistan's World Cup campaign is not the points or group standing, but the realization that they no longer look like guests at such tournaments. The team proved capable of troubling top-tier opponents and playing on equal terms for stretches. The World Cup is over for Uzbekistan, but the feeling that this story is just beginning has only grown stronger after the DR Congo match.
Source: podrobno.uz