The AFC World Cup qualifiers resume with an exciting clash between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan at the Mong Kok Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
Hong Kong, currently at the bottom of Group E with one point from four matches, faces a tough challenge against Uzbekistan, who sit second in the group with four points, trailing Iran only on goal difference.
Having kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualification journey with a victory over Bhutan in the first round, Hong Kong has struggled in the group stage, recording a heavy defeat against Iran and managing only a draw against Turkmenistan.
Looking to secure their first-ever win over Uzbekistan and clinch their first three points in the group stage, Hong Kong’s form has been inconsistent. Despite a notable victory over China earlier in the year, they faced defeats against Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia before exiting the Asian Cup without a point.
On the other hand, Uzbekistan enters the match in fine form, having not lost a game in regulation time since September 2023. Srecko Katanec’s side, ranked 66th in the FIFA rankings, have shown resilience, securing wins against Turkmenistan and salvaging a draw against Iran in World Cup qualifying.
Record goalscorer Eldor Shomurodov returns to bolster Uzbekistan’s attacking prowess, while winger Jaloliddin Masharipov is set to provide width after his stint as a center-forward in the Asian Cup.
For Hong Kong, the addition of Brazilian-born midfielder Dudu and the return of defender Tsui Wang Kit from injury add depth to the squad, with Nigeria-born Michael Udebuluzor leading the attack.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Hong Kong: Tse; Chan, Gerbig, Nunez, Yue; Wu, Tan; Orr, Chan, Camargo; Udebuluzor
Uzbekistan: Yusupov; Ashurmatov, Eshmurodov, Abdullayev; Sayfiyev, Shukurov, Hamrobekov, Turgunboyev; Fayzullayev, Urunov, Masharipov
Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in their quest for World Cup qualification.