Uzbekistan predicted lineup vs Portugal for FIFA World Cup 2026

Uzbekistan will clash against Portugal on June 23 IST.

Uzbekistan’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign enters a decisive phase as they prepare to take on Portugal in Group K. After falling to a 3-1 defeat against Colombia in their opening fixture, Timur Kapadze’s side will be aiming to bounce back and keep their qualification hopes alive with a positive result against the European giants.

The defeat to Colombia left Timur Kapadze’s men searching for their first points of the tournament. With Portugal also entering the match after a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, the fixture carries significant importance for both teams.

Uzbekistan will start with most of the players from the first match. There will be a number of highly valued internationals who will remain in key positions as the White Wolves strive to register their first-ever FIFA World Cup win.

Captain Eldor Shomurodov is expected to start the attack again, while Otabek Shukurov, Abdukodir Khusanov and Abbosbek Fayzullaev are expected to start the game. Uzbekistan will be looking to maintain their 4-4-2 line.

Who all will be expected in the starting lineup?

Utkir Yusupov is likely to be the Uzbekistan goalkeeper. The defence will probably be made up of Khojiakbar Alijonov and Farrukh Sayfiev as full-backs, with Rustam Ashurmatov and Abdukodir Khusanov in the centre.

Midfield is likely to be dominated by Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Jaloliddin Masharipov, who will be based on the wings, and Odiljon Hamrobekov and Otabek Shukurov, who will be in the central areas. The four will keep the balance and attack.

Also Read: Preview: Portugal vs Uzbekistan prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026

Forward Captain Eldor Shomurodov will be slated to go into the game in a two-man strike force with Igor Sergeev. But if Uzbekistan are to challenge Portugal’s defence, then their ability to move and finish will be crucial.

Shomurodov remains one of Uzbekistan’s most experienced players and is expected to lead the side in attack. Fayzullaev’s creativity and Khusanov’s defensive qualities are also likely to play important roles in the contest.

Uzbekistan predicted XI vs Portugal

Uzbekistan predicted lineup (4-4-2): Utkir Yusupov (GK); Khojiakbar Alijonov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Abdukodir Khusanov, Farrukh Sayfiev; Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Odiljon Hamrobekov, Otabek Shukurov, Jaloliddin Masharipov; Igor Sergeev, Eldor Shomurodov (c).

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