Abdukodir Khusanov

Khusanov recorded two tackles (one won) and three clearances in Wednesday's 3-1 defeat to Colombia. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 34th minute.

Analysis: Khusanov was Uzbekistan's defensive leader in Wednesday's 1-3 defeat to Colombia, operating as the right centre-back in a back three and registering two tackles (one won), four clearances and an authoritative aerial presence that kept Luis Suarez largely quiet throughout the match despite Colombia's dominance. The Manchester City centre-back received a yellow card for a foul on Luis Diaz in the first half, a booking that will leave him just one caution away from suspension and will require careful management in the remaining group games against Portugal and Congo. His physicality, reading of the game and experience at the highest club level make him Uzbekistan's most important individual defensive asset heading into the remainder of the tournament, and his ability to marshal the backline against Portugal's attacking threats will be central to any upset Uzbekistan can produce.

Jun 8, 2026

Defensive leader for Uzbekistan

Khusanov has been named in Uzbekistan's World Cup squad and is expected to lead the defensive unit, arriving at the tournament as one of the most recognizable names in the squad following an impressive season with Manchester City.

Analysis: Khusanov posted 51 tackles, 55 interceptions and 82 clearances across all competitions this season, delivering a performance level that underlines his rapid development as one of the more complete young center-backs in European football. Despite his young age, the Uzbek defender has already established himself as the leader of the national team's backline, bringing the tactical intelligence and physical presence needed to compete against the most demanding opposition. For Uzbekistan, Khusanov is the most important defensive figure in the squad and the player around whom the entire defensive structure is built, with his Manchester City experience giving him the preparation needed to handle the demands of a World Cup group stage that includes a heavyweight clash against Portugal.