In a closely fought AFC Qualifier match for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Uzbekistan secured a vital 1-0 victory over Korea DPR at the Milliy Stadium in Tashkent. The solitary goal from Jaloliddin Masharipov in the 20th minute was enough to separate the two sides and hand Uzbekistan the crucial three points. Both teams battled hard in a tense encounter, but Uzbekistan’s disciplined defense and efficient use of chances propelled them to victory.
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Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Head-to-Head (H2H)
Uzbekistan and Korea DPR have faced off several times in World Cup qualifying campaigns, with Uzbekistan generally having the upper hand.
- Uzbekistan Wins: 4
- Draws: 0
- Korea DPR Wins: 1
In recent meetings, Uzbekistan has dominated, winning by comfortable margins. Their previous matchups include Uzbekistan’s 4-0 and 3-1 victories, illustrating their superior form in the AFC World Cup qualifiers.
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Lineups
Here is the Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR lineups today (Sep 5, 2024)
Uzbekistan (5-3-2):
- Goalkeeper: Utkir Yusupov
- Defenders: Rustamjon Ashurmatov, Umar Eshmurodov, Husniddin Aliqulov, Farrukh Sayfiev, Khojiakbar Alijonov
- Midfielders: Otabek Shukurov, Odiljon Hamrobekov, Jaloliddin Masharipov (Captain)
- Forwards: Eldor Shomurodov, Oston Urunov
Substitutes: Abduvohid Nematov, Botirali Ergashev, Mukhammadkodir Khamraliev, Farrukh Sayfiev, Akmal Mozgovoy, Jamshid Iskanderov, Abdulla Abdullaev, Azizbek Turgunboev, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Bobur Abdikholikov, Hojimat Erkinov, Azizbek Amonov.
Uzbekistan Football Team Manager: Srečko Katanec
Korea DPR (4-4-2):
- Goalkeeper: Kang Ju Hyok
- Defenders: Jang Kuk Chol (Captain), Kim Pom Hyok, Ri Hun, Choe Ok Chol
- Midfielders: Ri Il Song, Choe Ju Song, Kang Kuk Chol, Paek Chung Song
- Forwards: Kim Kuk Bom, Ri Jo Guk
Substitutes: Sin Tae Song, Yu Kwang Jun, Kim Jin Hyok, Jong Kum Song, Kye Tam, Ri Hun, Jong Il Gwan, Ri Un Chol, Kim Song Hye, Ri Jo Guk, Choe Ju Song.
Korea DPR Football Team Manager: SIN Yong Nam
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR First Half: Early Breakthrough
The first half kicked off with both teams probing for opportunities. Uzbekistan was the brighter side, testing Korea DPR’s defense early on, and in the 20th minute, they found their breakthrough. A perfectly weighted corner from Sherzod Nasrullaev found Jaloliddin Masharipov, who made no mistake in finishing, giving Uzbekistan a 1-0 lead.
Despite Korea DPR’s attempts to respond, they struggled to break down Uzbekistan’s solid backline. A penalty was awarded to Korea DPR in the 38th minute after a foul by Hamrobekov, but Kang Kuk Chol’s attempt was brilliantly saved by Utkir Yusupov, keeping Uzbekistan in the lead.
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Second Half: Defensive Masterclass
The second half saw Korea DPR increasing their pressure, with attempts from Ri Jo Guk and Paek Chung Song, but Uzbekistan’s defense remained impenetrable. Srečko Katanec, Uzbekistan’s manager, made tactical substitutions, including the introduction of Farrukh Sayfiev and Bobur Abdikholikov, to shore up the midfield and defense.
Korea DPR’s attacking efforts intensified in the final 15 minutes, but Uzbekistan’s goalkeeper Yusupov was in top form, making crucial saves and ensuring the clean sheet.
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Stats
- Possession: Uzbekistan 55% – 45% Korea DPR
- Shots on Target: Uzbekistan 6 – 4 Korea DPR
- Corners: Uzbekistan 5 – 3 Korea DPR
- Fouls: Uzbekistan 12 – 15 Korea DPR
- Offsides: Uzbekistan 3 – 2 Korea DPR
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Timeline
- 1′ – Offside call on Shomurodov (Uzbekistan).
- 20′ – GOAL! Jaloliddin Masharipov scores from a corner (Uzbekistan 1-0 Korea DPR).
- 38′ – Penalty awarded to Korea DPR, but Kang Kuk Chol’s shot is saved by Yusupov.
- 45’+3′ – Half-time: Uzbekistan 1-0 Korea DPR.
- 53′ – Offside decision against Masharipov (Uzbekistan).
- 60′ – Substitution for Uzbekistan: Fayzullaev on for Urunov.
- 87′ – Substitution: Abdikholikov replaces Shomurodov for Uzbekistan.
- 90’+3′ – Full-time: Uzbekistan 1-0 Korea DPR.
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR Match Impact on Points Table
With this victory, Uzbekistan solidifies its position in the World Cup Qualifying Group A. They continue their strong run, remaining unbeaten in the last five matches. The win pushes them closer to the top spot, increasing their chances of qualifying for the next round. Korea DPR, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly as they drop crucial points.
Uzbekistan vs Korea DPR: Stellar Performance of the Match
Uzbekistan’s goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov was the standout performer, making several vital saves, including a penalty stop, and securing the clean sheet for his side.
Uzbekistan’s narrow 1-0 victory over Korea DPR highlights their resilience and defensive organization. With Jaloliddin Masharipov’s early goal and Yusupov’s goalkeeping heroics, Uzbekistan took an essential step closer to FIFA World Cup 2026™ qualification. This result leaves Korea DPR needing to reevaluate their strategy as they move into the next round of fixtures.
