On 12 November, Uzbekistan clinched a 3-1 win over North Korea in Tashkent.

After the match, Uzbek coach said unexpectedly his team conceded fast goal and created a trouble. But, he added, the team showed character and won the match. He underlined that he studied the Korean side and tried to find correct play methods against them.

Babayan said all players showed their best side despite some mistakes. He also expressed gratitude to the fans, who supported Uzbekistan at the stadium.

North Korea coach Kim Chang Bok said that Uzbekistan showed good football. He noted that his team netted fast goal and needed to defend, instead of scoring more goals. It is difficult not to concede in such match.

He noted that Uzbekistan improved significantly compared to the first match, which ended with 4-2 victory of North Korean side. He vowed that North Korea will continue to fight for spot in next stage of qualifiers.