Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Uzbekistan struck in the second half strike to defeat Islamic Republic of Iran 1-0 in their final AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Qatar 2024 Qualifiers Group E fixture at the Lokomotiv Stadium on Tuesday.

The win confirmed Uzbekistan, the 2018 champions, their ticket to next April’s Finals.  

Both sides came into the tie level on points, having impressed with victories over Hong Kong, China and Afghanistan respectively.

Uzbekistan, backed by their fans, dominated but could not find a way past Iran as the first half ended 0-0.

Uzbekistan, runners-up in the 2022 edition, finally broke the deadlock in the 74th minute courtesy of Abbosbek Fayzullaev’s effort to seal the win and a place in the 2024 Finals.