Arshavin Calls Uzbekistan “Dark Horse” of World Cup 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Former Russia national team, Zenit and Arsenal footballer Andrey Arshavin has assessed the prospects of Uzbekistan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the national team as a “dark horse” of the tournament. His comments were reported by Sport-Express.

Arshavin noted that qualifying for the World Cup is already a significant achievement for the team. However, he said the expanded tournament format increases the chances of second-tier national teams.

“Of course, just reaching the tournament is already a success for them. But now even the third team in the group can advance, so although Uzbekistan is in a ‘group of death’ with Portugal and Colombia for me, it is a dark horse of the tournament,” he said.

He also praised Colombia’s national team and described the Democratic Republic of the Congo as being comparable in level to Uzbekistan.

Arshavin separately commented on Uzbekistan’s performance after watching the national team play.

“I liked the guys, Shomurodov was good. A playing team,” he said.

Comment on Abdukodir Khusanov

Arshavin also shared his opinion on Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, calling him one of the standout discoveries.

“For me, he is a discovery. I did not know who Khusanov was until he moved to Man City. Now he is playing very well,” he said.

According to Arshavin, the player demonstrates a high level consistent with the requirements of Pep Guardiola and his development reflects his own hard work and professional growth.