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Uzbekistan are set for a historic return to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup with the Central Asian side back on the Continental stage for the first time since 2003.

Often viewed as a sleeping giant of women’s football in the region, Uzbekistan are now enjoying the fruits of their labour under the guidance of Lithuanian head coach Kotryna Kulbyte, who has transformed the team’s mentality and playing style since taking over the helm early this year.

Factfile

FIFA World Ranking: 51

Head Coach: Kotryna Kulbyte

How they got there: Qualifiers Group F winners

Previous appearances: 5

Best placing: Group stage

2022 result: Did not qualify

Fun fact: Uzbekistan will be appearing in the Finals for the first time since 2003

Kulbyte, known for her tactical discipline and ability to nurture confidence in her players, has unlocked the potential of key talents such as Lyudmila Karachik and Nilufar Kudratova and blended youthful energy to ignite new belief that they can compete among Asia’s elite.

Adding depth are Umida Zoirova, whose creativity often dictates the pace of play, and Maftuna Shoyimova, a versatile defender who has led by example from the back.

Uzbekistan’s path to qualification was a mixed bag. They began their campaign with resounding victories against Nepal (10-0) and Laos (7-0). Matching them were Nepal, who also shone with dominating performances against the same opponents.

This set up a decisive showdown in their final group game after both teams were tied on points with identical goal difference. Despite losing a player to a red card and enduring a spirited Nepalese fightback, Uzbekistan held their nerve to force a shootout.

A 4-2 triumph from the spot secured their long-awaited return to the Finals with Kulbyte hailing her team’s composure after the game.

“We came through a difficult path and grew as a team. Qualification is a big step for Uzbekistan, but this is only the beginning. If our goal wasn’t to reach the FIFA World Cup, we wouldn’t be here,” said the 32-year-old.

Attention now turns to how far this talented generation can go. The goal is to get past the group stage at Australia 2026, surpassing their predecessors.

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