Uzbekistan and Jordan have made historic breakthroughs by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time, set to compete in the expanded 2026 tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Uzbekistan secured their debut World Cup berth after a crucial 0-0 draw with the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, becoming the first Central Asian nation ever to qualify for the global event.
Their goalkeeper, Utkir Yusupov, played a pivotal role with six key saves, including a last-minute stop that clinched the vital point. This achievement has sparked nationwide celebrations, with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev hailing it as a landmark moment in Uzbekistan’s sports history coinciding with the Eid al-Adha holiday. The Uzbek team’s rise is underscored by emerging talents like 21-year-old center-back Dukod Khusanov, recently signed by Manchester City, and striker Eldor Shomurodov, active in Italy’s Serie A.
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Shortly after Uzbekistan’s qualification, Jordan secured their maiden World Cup appearance with a commanding 3-0 victory over Oman, with all goals scored by Ali Olwan. Jordan’s success marks a significant milestone for the nation’s football program, reflecting steady progress in Asian football. Both teams will join established Asian competitors such as Japan, Iran, and South Korea, the latter marking their 11th consecutive World Cup qualification.
This historic dual qualification highlights the growing competitiveness of Asian football, especially as the 2026 World Cup expands from 32 to 48 teams, allowing more nations from the continent to participate on football’s biggest stage. Uzbekistan and Jordan’s entry into the World Cup not only marks personal national achievements but also signals a broader rise of football in Central and West Asia.
