The Uzbekistan U-23 national team achieved a 3-0 victory against Vietnam in the third match of the group stage of the AFC Championship for players under 23 in Qatar. The match on April 24 saw Uzbekistan take the lead early on with a goal from midfielder Alisher Odilov in the 4th minute. Forward Ruslanbek Jiyonov extended the lead with a precise shot in the 36th minute.
Odilov secured a brace in the 40th minute, heading in a cross from Saidzamato Mirsaidov. Despite a potential penalty in favor of Uzbekistan U-23 not being confirmed after a VAR check in the 85th minute, the team topped Group D with 9 points, advancing to the quarterfinals. Their next match is against Saudi Arabia on April 26 at 19:00.
The AFC U-23 Championship serves as a qualifying tournament for the 2024 Olympics in France, with the top three teams earning spots for Asia and the fourth-placed team entering a playoff. The tournament features 16 teams, with Saudi Arabia being the reigning champions. Exciting matches and talent on display promise an engaging competition in Qatar.