Away 2023/25
Matchprepared Khozhiakbar Alijonov (AFC Asia Cup 2023)
Manufacturer: JAKO
Source: Collector
THE COUNTRY
Fun fact: You’ve probably always pronounced “Uzbekistan” wrong. Contrary to its (English) spelling, the country is actually pronounced “Osbekiston” (or [ozbek'ˈstɒn], if you’re into the IPA alphabet) as is its capital Tashkent (Toshkent).
The former Soviet republic is the most populous country in Central Asia and alongside Liechtenstein, the only double landlocked country in the world. While its way to the next ocean might be long and weary, Uzbekistan’s road to the AFC Asian Cup has been rather easy for them, as they have managed to qualify every time since the country’s independence.
Their most successful appearance was in 2011, when the team advanced to the semi-finals where they lost 0-6 to Australia.
THE SHIRT
Minus times minus equals plus! What applies not only to arithmetic lessons in fifth grade also hold true for Uzbekistan's current JAKO jersey.
For a long time now, the Uzbek national team has taken to the field in very boring designs. Kit manufacturer JAKO is also known for its plain jersey designs – although their Moldova and North Macedonia kits are exceptions.
Now, at last, the German manufacturer has given Uzbekistan a very stylish design. In terms of quality, it is at the lower end of the major manufacturers, but the shirt stands out thanks to its chic design, which impresses with its traditional Uzbek pattern.
Kept in dark blue, the bright dots (more like squares), which are reminiscent of star constellations, are particularly eye-catching. Next to the federation badge on the right side of the chest is the mythical Huma bird, which can be found on the Uzbek coat of arms as well. A nice detail is the collar, which is in the style of the national flag.
My jersey was prepared for Khozhiakbar Alijonov for the AFC Asia Cup 2023 (which, however, did not take place until 2024). Unfortunately, Alijonov was injured in the first game and was therefore unable to help his team reach the round of 16, where they lost to the hosts and eventual tournament winners from Qatar. The beautiful patches on the sleeves still bear witness to the tournament
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