Shomurodov and Khusanov lead Uzbekistan's first World Cup squad

Uzbekistan's historic first World Cup finals appearance will be spearheaded by a squad named by coach Fabio Cannavaro, featuring prominent players Eldor Shomurodov and Abdukodir Khusanov.

Captain Shomurodov, a forward, is set to be the team's primary attacking force, playing alongside his Istanbul Basaksehir teammate Abbosbek Fayzullaev. In defense, Manchester City's Khusanov, despite facing injury earlier in the season, became a regular starter, contributing to his club's FA Cup and League Cup victories.

The team's journey begins in Group K, where they are scheduled to play against Colombia in their opening fixture. Their campaign will continue with matches against Portugal and DR Congo.

The full squad includes: Goalkeepers: Utkir Yusupov (Navbahor), Abduvohid Nematov (Nasaf), Botirali Ergashev (Neftchi). Defenders: Rustam Ashurmatov (Esteghlal), Farrukh Sayfiev (Neftchi), Khojiakbar Alijonov (Pakhtakor), Sherzod Nasrullaev (Nasaf), Umar Eshmurodov (Nasaf), Abdukodir Khusanov (Manchester City), Abdulla Abdullaev (Dibba), Bekhruz Karimov (Surkhon), Jakhongir Urozov (Dinamo Samarqand), Avazbek Ulmasaliev (AGMK). Midfielders: Otabek Shukurov (Baniyas), Jaloliddin Masharipov (Esteghlal), Odiljon Hamrobekov (Tractor), Oston Urunov (Persepolis), Jamshid Iskanderov (Neftchi), Dostonbek Khamdamov (Pakhtakor), Abbosbek Fayzullaev (Istanbul Basaksehir), Akmal Mozgovoy (Pakhtakor), Azizjon Ganiev (Al Bataeh), Sherzod Esanov (Bukhara). Forwards: Eldor Shomurodov (Istanbul Basaksehir), Igor Sergeev (Persepolis), Azizbek Amonov (Bukhara).