Uzbekistan defeats Sri Lanka 4–0 in U-23 Asian Cup qualifying opener

The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when midfielder Umarali Rakhmonaliev converted a cross from Behruzbek Askarov. Just two minutes later, Rakhmonaliev turned provider, setting up Rustam Turdimurodov to double the lead with a precise strike into the bottom corner.

Turdimurodov, a 21-year-old forward on loan at Surkhan from Pakhtakor, added his second goal in the 53rd minute, finishing off another attacking move from close range. The striker has been in fine domestic form as well, scoring four goals in five Uzbekistan Super League matches this season.

Substitute defender Sardorbek Bahromov sealed the win in the 70th minute, firing home from outside the penalty area to make it 4–0. Rakhmonaliev, who scored one and assisted another, was named man of the match.

Uzbekistan will continue their Group C campaign against Kyrgyzstan on 6 September, before meeting Palestine in their final group fixture on 9 September.

The team enters the competition as last year’s runners-up, having lost to Japan in the final. The next U-23 Asian Cup will be staged in Saudi Arabia from 7 to 25 January 2026.