Historic Night in Asian Qualifiers: Uzbekistan & Jordan Reach First World Cup

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — In a landmark moment for Asian football, Uzbekistan and Jordan secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup berths on Tuesday, joining South Korea and Australia, who also took major steps toward qualification for the 2026 tournament in North America.

Uzbekistan’s Historic Achievement

Uzbekistan clinched their place with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Abu Dhabi, a result that guaranteed them a top-two finish in Group A alongside already-qualified Iran.

• Goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov was the hero, making crucial second-half saves to deny the UAE.

• This marks Uzbekistan’s first World Cup qualification since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Jordan’s Dream Realized

Jordan’s path to the World Cup was confirmed after South Korea’s 2-0 win over Iraq, which secured the Taegeuk Warriors’ qualification from Group B and simultaneously ensured Jordan’s progression.

• Earlier in the day, Jordan had thrashed Oman 3-0, with Ali Olwan netting a hat-trick.

• However, they had to wait for South Korea’s result to officially celebrate.

South Korea & Australia March On

• South Korea defeated 10-man Iraq 2-0 with goals from Kim Jin-gyu and Oh Hyeon-gyu, continuing their unbroken World Cup streak since 1986.

• Australia edged Japan 1-0 in Perth thanks to Aziz Behich’s winner, putting them three points clear of Saudi Arabia in Group C.

Key Takeaways

✔ Asia’s Expanding World Cup Presence: The 48-team 2026 format has opened doors for emerging nations like Uzbekistan & Jordan.
✔ Australia’s Near-Certain Qualification: A loss by ≤4 goals vs. Saudi Arabia next week would still see them through.
✔ UAE, Qatar, Indonesia Advance to Playoffs: The third- and fourth-placed teams will compete in October’s fourth-round qualifiers.

Upcoming Deciders

• Australia vs. Saudi Arabia (June 11) – A draw or narrow loss sends the Socceroos through.

• Palestine (2-0 vs. Kuwait) still in contention, needing results to go their way.

• Kyrgyzstan eliminated after a 2-2 draw with North Korea.