Nasaf became the first team from the central Asian nation to lift the trophy after second-half goals from Ilkhom Shomurodov and Andrejs Pereplotkins proved enough to clinch a 2-1 victory over Kuwait SC at Karshi Central Stadium.

"I am very happy. I want to congratulate everybody here," said Demianenko.

"I appreciate the support of the media and the fans. This is a great achievement of Uzbekistan football. I am proud of this."

Nasaf were worthy winners as they enjoyed the upper hand for the vast majority of the game.

They came closest to breaking the deadlock in a goalless opening 45 minutes when AFC Cup top scorer Ivan Boskovic headed Jahongir Jiyamuradov's cross against the bar after quarter of an hour but eventually took control with two quick goals midway through the second period.

Shomurodov put the hosts in front after 62 minutes when he tapped home at the far post after Artur Gevorkyan had squared the ball across the six-yard box to the striker and Pereplotkins doubled the advantage when he turned home the Turkmen international's cross two minutes later.

Boris Kabi halved the deficit in the 68th minute with a neat turn and finish for Kuwait SC and IBoskovic then wasted two good chances as Nasaf closed out victory.

"We fully deserved the win tonight," added Demianenko.

"The AFC Cup is very important for me. Anyway, winning such trophies is always important.

"After we had conceded the goal, I was a little bit afraid but finally we won the match and the trophy.

"I hope I will continue to work and I will help Uzbek football to improve. I cannot point out only one player who was the best. All of them were the best."

Kuwait SC coach Dragan Talajic paid tribute to his opposite number Demianenko.

"I think Nasaf won because of their coach," he said.

"Nasaf are a very good team but I have to mention the special role of the head coach. Nasaf won the cup because of the coach's tactical instructions.

"I want to congratulate Nasaf on their win, they deserved their success.

"They played very good football from beginning and they decided the result within several minutes.

"In the final, someone wins and the opponent loses. We lost tonight. If you want to blame someone for today's defeat of Kuwait SC, you can blame me. I am head coach and I am taking full responsibility for the result."