Uzbekistan secure 3-1 victory over Iran in friendly clash

Uzbekistan come from behind to claim victory

Uzbekistan men's national football team triumphed 3-1 against Iran men's national football team in a lively international friendly at Istiqlol Stadium in Fergana on Thursday, 24 September 2026. The home side secured the win through two goals from Eldor Shomurodov and a stoppage-time strike by Khusain Norchaev, overcoming an own goal that had briefly levelled the match for the visitors.

Goals change the game momentum

The scoring opened early when Eldor Shomurodov put Uzbekistan ahead in the 10th minute, firing his team into a 1-0 lead. Iran responded shortly after the interval when Jakhongir Urozov inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net in the 49th minute, bringing the score to 1-1. However, Uzbekistan reclaimed the lead in the 58th minute when Shomurodov converted a penalty, making it 2-1. The final goal of the match came deep into added time, as Khusain Norchaev sealed the 3-1 victory for the hosts in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

Discipline and substitutions

The game saw a total of six yellow cards evenly split between the two sides. Iran's Saeid Ezatolahi was booked in the 17th minute, while his teammates Alireza Beiranvand and Ali Nemati also received cautions in the 55th and 90+6 minutes respectively. Uzbekistan's yellow cards came from Abbosbek Fayzullaev (50th minute), Ruslanbek Jiyanov (74th minute) and Sherzod Esanov (89th minute). Neither team had players sent off during the match. Both teams utilised their substitutions extensively, with Uzbekistan making seven changes and Iran six, indicating a focus on testing their squads.

Statistics and match context

Specific match statistics such as possession, shots, and corners were not reported, but the final scoreline suggests Uzbekistan were effective in capitalising on their chances. The home side’s ability to respond quickly after conceding an own goal proved decisive. This friendly win provides Uzbekistan with a confidence boost as they continue to develop their squad ahead of future international fixtures.

Looking ahead

With this positive result, Uzbekistan will look to build on their winning momentum in upcoming matches. Iran, having fallen short here, may reassess their tactics as they prepare for their next international engagements. Both sides have demonstrated competitive spirit that could shape their prospects in forthcoming fixtures.

Goals and key moments

Match statistics