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Uzbekistan prepares for historic World Cup debut against Colombia

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 8:20 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Uzbekistan prepares for historic World Cup debut against Colombia

Summary

Uzbekistan's national soccer team is set to make its World Cup debut on Thursday against Colombia at 7 am local time. Anticipation is building, with schools and public spaces transforming into viewing areas, as communities aim to watch the match together. Over 200 schools will host public screenings, and fan zones are established across Tashkent, including a venue at Bunyodkor Stadium. Coach Fabio Cannavaro, who took over in October 2025, will lead the team in Group K, which includes Portugal and DR Congo. Many businesses are planning to screen the game before work hours, emphasizing a national pride in this historic participation.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Match kicks off at 7 am local time on Thursday.
•Uzbekistan faces Colombia in its World Cup opener.
•Public screenings organized in over 200 schools nationwide.
•Fan zones established in Tashkent, including Bunyodkor Stadium.
•Uzbekistan is in Group K with Colombia, Portugal, and DR Congo.

Latest Updates

8:20 AMYahoo Sports — All of Uzbekistan readies to watch history at its first World Cup

What they're saying

"
Schools, offices and city squares across Uzbekistan are setting up screens for Thursday's 7 am kick-off against Colombia, as the country makes its World Cup debut under coach Fabio Cannavaro. "In the heart of every Uzbek, this is a matter of pride and honour," an education ministry official said.
— Yahoo Sports

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