Two years ago, Uzbekistan provided one of the stories of the FIFA U-17 World Cup™ when they embarked on a superb run to the quarter-finals in Indonesia. They overcame one of the tournament favourites, England, in stunning fashion in the Round of 16, before being edged out by eventual runners-up France in the last eight.
As this year’s edition races into view, optimism is high that Uzbekistan can again make their mark. The nation are heading to Qatar 2025 as the AFC U-17 Asian Cup champions, having beaten Saudi Arabia 2-0 in April’s final.
Uzbekistan kick off their U-17 World Cup campaign against Paraguay on 5 November, and they will also do battle with the Republic of Ireland and Panama in Group J. Ahead of the tournament, coach Islombek Ismoilov discussed the team’s targets in Qatar and why the competition can provide an invaluable experience for his young players.
Islombek Ismoilov: Winning the U-17 Asian Cup is a great honour for us, but at the same time, it brings even more responsibility ahead of the World Cup. This victory gave our players confidence, and we are now working twice as hard while feeling that belief. We are heading to the World Cup to test ourselves on the world stage. Our goal is to write a new chapter in the history of Uzbekistan football – to showcase ourselves through teamwork, discipline and determination.
I had many conversations with the coach (Jamoliddin Rakhmatullaev) who led the team in that previous tournament. I asked him about the mistakes they made and what they focused on most. We drew conclusions not only from that competition but also from every match we have played. We learned a lot about decision-making under pressure and game control. During our preparation, we worked thoroughly on these details. Every player was prepared not only technically but also mentally, with a specific psychological programme. In short, we are now a team that plays not only with strength but also with intelligence.
The main difference lies in speed and decision-making quality. Unlike Asian teams, when you play against European, African, or South American sides, you have very little time to think – they press with much higher intensity.
That’s why in training we focused a lot on improving decision-making speed and expanding spatial awareness. In addition, we made our playing style more dynamic, flexible, and built around aggressive pressing compared to the Asian championship. Now our aim is not only to adapt to opponents but also to control the game ourselves.
The preparation process was very well organised by the Uzbekistan FA. We played several international friendlies where we tested various tactical approaches. We’ve been conducting in-depth analysis of our group opponents – Paraguay, Ireland and Panama – analysing their strengths and weaknesses. Based on that, we developed different playing models for each team. We are no longer a one-dimensional side; we are now a team that can adapt and impose our own game.
At this age, players feel enormous pressure in such a big tournament. That’s why we’ve focused on teaching them not to fear the pressure. Alongside physical training, we conduct daily psychological sessions and team talks. We constantly support the players to help them express their full potential during matches. In terms of physical preparation, we have specific programs to improve players’ speed and ensure they can maintain a high tempo throughout the game.
With your trust, we became champions of Asia and now, with your prayers, we’re going to the World Cup. Support us emotionally and spiritually, and keep believing in us. To every young player, I want to say: if you are given an opportunity, value it and defend it through hard work. Because talent may lead you to the path, but hard work will take you to your destination. We’re going to the World Cup not only to win, but to proudly represent the name of Uzbekistan.
Pictures: Uzbekistan FA
