Both sides were level on six points from two games coming into this third and final group fixture, but the UAE had an edge in better goal difference and knew they only needed a draw to progress.

Islomjon Kobilov nodded in Jasurbek Yakhshiboev’s corner to open the score on 67 minutes of the match. A second was then added by Javokir Sidikov on 90 minutes.

Uzbekistan collected nine points after three matches to top Group D and book its berth in final round of the AFC U-23 Championship.