TASHKENT, July 1. /Dunyo IA/.  National football team of Uzbekistan, having concluded its participation in the FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has returned to our homeland, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

At the Tashkent International Airport, the football players were solemnly welcomed by representatives of state and public organizations, officials of the Uzbekistan Football Association, sports veterans, media personnel and numerous fans. Adorned with national flags and slogans of support, the fans expressed their heartfelt respect and profound gratitude to the team.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov emphasized that, under the initiative of the President, comprehensive reforms aimed at the development of the sports sector and particularly football, are being consistently implemented in our country.

It was noted that the qualification of the national football team of Uzbekistan for the final stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history and its participation in this prestigious tournament became one of the most significant events in the history of the country's sports. This result was evaluated as the fruit of national football development, the profound attention paid to children's and youth football, as well as the long-term hard work of coaches and football players.

Speakers at the event emphasized that although the national team concluded the group stage of the World Cup in the final position, the matches against the world's strongest national teams provided invaluable experience for the players. It was noted that this participation will serve to further enhance the international competitiveness of our national team in the future, as well as to elevate the skills and mental preparedness of the football players.

In his turn, the captain of our national team, Eldor Shomurodov, whose score was recognized by FIFA as the most beautiful goal of the 2026 World Cup group stage, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all compatriots for their steadfast support and confidence.

-  We endeavored to worthily defend the honour of our nation in every match. We understand well that the result did not meet the expectations of our fans, and we sincerely apologize for this. At the same time, participating in the World Cup has provided us with immense experience. In the future, we will draw the necessary conclusions from our mistakes and work tirelessly to return to the pitch as a much stronger team, - stated the captain of the national team.

During the event, a concert program featuring prominent artists was presented. Patriotic melodies, songs and musical performances imparted an uplifting spirit to the solemn ceremony.