Officials from the Uzbekistan national football team signed a memorandum on football cooperation with Kyrgyzstan during the closing ceremony of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Baku. The cultural and diplomatic event was also attended by representatives from Turkey and Kazakhstan.
The agreement signed between the football federations of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan aims to develop cooperation. The meeting, held within the framework of the summit's cultural program, saw the two sides exchange views on football development and youth academies. The document presented by the Uzbek side envisages strengthening sports ties between the two partner nations. This signing is part of Uzbekistan's broader efforts to expand football cooperation in Asia.
The event featured a bright concert by Kyrgyz music and dance groups. Representatives of Kyrgyzstan's Salbuurun National Federation showed guests Kyrgyz Taigan dogs and trained eagles, providing information about ancient hunting traditions. Ziroat Mirziyoyeva stated: "Representatives of the Salbuurun National Federation showed guests Kyrgyz Taigan dogs and trained eagles, providing information about ancient hunting traditions." All participants emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
This diplomatic activity comes during a difficult period for the team in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. In three games, they have scored 2 goals and conceded 11 overall. The team has lost its last five matches, recording an LLLLL form. They trail leaders Colombia by 7 points. The last result was a 3-1 defeat to Congo DR on June 27, 2026. The team's next fixture is an away match against South Korea on October 6, 2026, full details of which can be found on our fixtures page.
These diplomatic moves on the international stage could serve to improve relations with future opponents. However, the main task remains delivering results on the pitch. The team is working hard to break its losing streak. Their statistical indicators need improvement, particularly the number of goals scored and defensive solidity. The activities of the team's leadership in Baku are part of a wider effort to enhance the prestige of the national football team. Uzbekistan players continue their preparation for the next match scheduled for October 6, 2026.
