President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has congratulated the national football team on qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling the achievement "historic," reports Gazeta.uz.
"You have demonstrated true courage and resilience in the qualifying matches against some of Asia’s strongest teams and, for the first time in our nation's history, secured a place in the World Cup. I sincerely and wholeheartedly congratulate you on this truly great victory," the president said in his message.
He emphasized that the team’s achievement would be "etched in the annals of national sports in golden letters," fulfilling the long-held dreams of millions of football fans and the entire Uzbek nation.
"You turned this dream into reality through your professionalism, knowledge, skill, and—most importantly—your unwavering determination and belief in victory," he added.
According to the president, this success is a testament to the high potential of Uzbekistan’s youth and the result of broad support for sports development across the country.
"Your participation in such a prestigious tournament is of immense value to us and stands as another concrete outcome of the great attention paid in recent years to sports, especially football—the most popular sport," Mirziyoyev said.
He also expressed confidence that the team’s historic qualification would serve as a source of inspiration for thousands of young people and enhance Uzbekistan’s international reputation.
"I believe that, energized by this glorious victory, and fully aware of the honor of being not only Uzbekistan's but all of Central Asia’s sole representatives at the World Cup to be held next year in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, you will show even greater dedication on the pitch," he stated.
President Mirziyoyev also expressed gratitude to the coaches, parents, and loved ones of the players, who have supported them with "constant prayers and dreams for their happiness and success."
"Congratulations to all on this unforgettable, historic victory — a true gift to our people during the sacred days of Kurban Hayit. Continue on your winning path, my dear children!" the message concluded.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 6, 2025