Uzbekistan vs Uruguay: Team News, Predictions, and Lineups Preview
Uzbekistan will face Uruguay in an international friendly match on Monday, April 22, 2025. The game takes place at Hang Jebat Stadium in Malaysia and serves as preparation for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Match Preview: Uzbekistan vs Uruguay
This match marks an important moment for both teams. Uzbekistan aims to secure a fifth consecutive victory and is buoyed after qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in June. Under coach Fabio Cannavaro, who replaced Timur Kapadze, Uzbekistan has performed well, recently defeating Kuwait 2-0. They are currently unbeaten in their last 11 matches, with a record of seven wins and four draws.
Uzbekistan’s Recent Form
Uzbekistan has demonstrated solid performance lately, achieving:
- Four consecutive match wins.
- Three clean sheets in their last three matches.
- Only one loss since November 2024, with a 3-2 defeat to Qatar.
Key player Abdukodir Khusanov, a center-back from Manchester City, is unavailable due to injury. However, coach Cannavaro is expected to organize a defensive lineup featuring Mukhammadkodir Khamraliev, Rustam Ashurmatov, and Alibek Davronov.
Uruguay’s Path to the Match
On the other hand, Uruguay, coached by Marcelo Bielsa, qualified for the World Cup by placing fourth in the CONMEBOL standings. They had a challenging qualifying campaign, with:
- One win, three losses, and six draws between September 2024 and June 2025.
- A rejuvenated end to their campaign, culminating in two victories and a draw in the last three games.
Uruguay’s recent encounter saw them defeat the Dominican Republic 1-0, thanks to Ignacio Laquintana’s goal. The team has shown good defensive form, not conceding in their last four games.
Injury Concerns for Both Teams
Uzbekistan faces injury challenges with key players missing:
- Abdukodir Khusanov (injured)
- Abbosbek Fayzullaev (doubtful due to injury)
Meanwhile, Uruguay will be without:
- Darwin Nunez (physical discomfort)
- Facundo Pellistri (hamstring injury)
- Sergio Rochet (foot injury)
Predicted Lineups
Here are the probable starting lineups for both teams:
| Uzbekistan | Nematov | Khamraliev | Ashurmatov | Davronov | Alizhonov | Mozgovoy | Shukurov | Nasrullaev | Turgunboev | Eldor | Erkinov |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uruguay | Fiermarin | P Rodriguez | Mourino | Marichal | Saracchi | Amaro | Fonseca | Torres | Laquintana | L Rodriguez | Sanabria |
Conclusion
The upcoming clash poses a challenge for Uzbekistan, who are eager to extend their winning streak against a formidable Uruguay side, currently ranked 15th by FIFA. The match will be telling for Uzbekistan’s readiness ahead of the World Cup, while Uruguay seeks to solidify their defensive strength.
Expect an intense match with both teams keen on securing a morale-boosting victory.
