Uzbekistan, Azambek Komilov, Islom Yusupov
10 June 2026
Uzbekistan are preparing for their first World Cup after years of painful near misses in qualifying. Fans see the breakthrough as overdue, backed by rising youth success, heavier state investment and a clearer football direction.
The Athletic’s feature highlighted Forward Uzbekistan as both a chant and a national message. New facilities, stronger academies and loud ultras have raised belief, while matches in Mexico City, Houston and Atlanta will showcase the team’s progress.