“We wanted to score many goals in the game but it was the first match and we missed many chances in both the first and second half,” said coach Kasimov. “But we’ll work on it and I think in the next game we’ll be better.”

Sergeev’s goal in the 62nd minute secured the points for Uzbekistan, but a reflex save from experienced goalkeeper Ignatiy Nesterov in the dying seconds of the game kept out a close-range header from Pak Kwang-ryong that would have given the DPR Koreans a draw they barely deserved.

“It was a hard game for us, because the first game is always tough,” said Kasimov. “There was a little bit of pressure before the game but we’re happy that we won. I’m satisfied with my team.

“It was hard in the last minutes and I’d like to say thanks to Ignatiy Nesterov, it was a great save but it was a victory of the whole team, I’m happy with all my players not just the goalkeeper. Our goalkeeper is the heart of the team.”

Sergeev’s game-winning header from Server Djeparov’s cross was reminiscent of those scored by former Uzbekistan forward Maksim Shatskikh and Kasimov is predicting a bright future for the Pakhtakor forward.

“I think he has a great future in this club and national team,” he said. “But he should not stop at this level. He should have a goal and he can be one of the best in Uzbekistan.”

Sergeev, for his part, thanked his team mates for their contribution and is hoping to be among the leading strikers at the tournament this month.

“It’s enjoyable to score in these kind of matches but it doesn’t matter who scored,” said the 21-year-old. “The main thing is the team has won and we are very happy with it and I’d like to thank all of my team mates because they fought to the end of the game and I’d like to thank them all.

“I’d like to be the striker of the tournament but the main thing is that the team wins and if my team mate is in a better position than me I will pass to him. But if I have a chance to score I will do it.”