The AFC U-17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia concluded with a remarkable triumph for Uzbekistanʼs U-17 national team, which defeated the host nation in a dramatic final to claim the title.

The first half ended on a sour note for the Uzbek side. In the 40th minute, midfielder Nurbek Sarsenbayev was shown a red card. Just five minutes later, Miraziz Abdukarimov committed a foul to stop a Saudi attacker and was also sent off. Uzbekistan ended the first half with only nine players on the pitch.

Despite the disadvantage, Uzbekistan started the second half with determination and intensity. As a result of sustained attacking pressure, Uzbekistan earned a breakthrough in the 50th minute when a Saudi defender handled the ball inside the penalty area. After a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty. Muhammad Khakimov stepped up and converted the spot kick, putting Uzbekistan in front.

In the remainder of the second half, the Saudi team attempted to apply more pressure. However, the Uzbek defense remained resolute, and the goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep the goal untouched. In the 70th minute, Sadriddin Hasanov received an excellent pass from the goalkeeper, skillfully bypassed two Saudi defenders, and slipped the ball between the goalkeeperʼs legs to score. With just nine players on the field, Uzbekistan extended its lead to 2–0 against a full Saudi lineup.

In the remaining minutes, Saudi Arabia continued to press forward, but couldnʼt create any clear chances, as Uzbekistanʼs defenders remained solid until the final whistle. The match ended 2–0, sealing a historic victory for the Uzbek side.

With this victory, Uzbekistanʼs U-17 national team was crowned champion of the 2025 AFC U-17 Asian Cup, held in Saudi Arabia.

Led by head coach Islom Ismoilov, the team delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament. They opened the group stage with a 4–1 win over Thailand, followed by a hard-fought 2–1 victory against China, which secured early qualification for the play-off stage and a spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup. In their final group match, they recorded a dominant 3–0 win over hosts Saudi Arabia.

In the play-off stage, the UAE lost 3:1 in the quarterfinals, then scored three unanswered goals against North Korea (Democratic Peopleʼs Republic of Korea) in the semifinals.

Uzbekistan completed the group stage with a 100% winning record and secured their place in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, which will be held in Qatar from November 3 to 27, 2025.