China vs Uzbekistan
International Friendly
Monday
16th October 2023
Dalian Sports Center Stadium
The most comprehensive preview and detailed analysis of the International Friendly fixture between China and Uzbekistan.
China vs Uzbekistan: Preview
China form analysis
Dragon’s Team have shown signs of improvement in their recent international matches, despite inconsistent results. They started this run in June by beating Myanmar 4-0 comfortably, with Wu Lei grabbing a brace. This was followed by a solid 2-0 win against Palestine as Wu continued his goalscoring form. However, in September China were held to a disappointing 1-1 home draw by Malaysia in qualifying, needing Lin Liangming to equalize. Days later they suffered a 0-1 friendly loss to Syria, exposed in defence.
Most recently though, China produced an improved performance to beat Vietnam 2-0 last month. Wang Qiuming and Wu Lei scored to get their qualifying campaign back on track. Wu has been a consistent bright spot, a tireless worker upfront with an eye for goal. Youngsters like Wang and Jiang Guangtai have shown potential in midfield and attack. But there are still concerns in defence, with China conceding in 3 of their last 4 games.
Overall coach Aleksandar Janković seems to be building a competitive team. There have been high and low moments as he integrates new faces. If China can tighten up defensively and find consistency, they could emerge as contenders in Asian qualifying going forward. But they need to improve their defensive record and resilience against quality opponents first.
Uzbekistan form analysis
Uzbekistan have shown some positive signs despite a few mixed results. In March friendlies, they beat Bolivia 1-0 thanks to Eldor Shomurodov’s goal but were held 1-1 by Venezuela, with Jaloliddin Yakhshiboev netting a penalty. After a sizeable gap, they faced a tough test against the USA in September, losing 0-3 convincingly.
However, Uzbekistan responded well days later by holding Mexico to a thrilling 3-3 draw away from home. Goals from Abdukholikov, Turg’unboev and Shukurov earned them a credible point. This demonstrated the offensive potential in the team.
Overall, Uzbekistan seem to be heading in the right direction. There is clearly talent in the attack that can trouble top opposition, even if defensive frailties were exposed against the USA.
They seem to have focused on instilling confidence and fearlessness into a promising group of young attackers. If he can add better defensive organization, Uzbekistan could emerge as dark horses in Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The raw materials are there for an exciting team – it’s now about finding the right tactical balance.
