Uzbekistan's World Cup debut ended in a 3-1 defeat to Colombia, but the mood among supporters told a different story.
From Tashkent to regional cities across the country, fans celebrated long after the final whistle, having witnessed Uzbekistan's first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup.
Midfielder Abbosbek Fayzullayev's second-half strike became a historic moment that many supporters considered more important than the result itself, as thousands gathered across the country to watch the national team's first appearance on football's biggest stage.
The match kicked off at seven o'clock in the morning local time, an unusually early start that altered the day-to-day rhythm across Uzbekistan.
Public institutions delayed opening to 10 am, while some private companies delayed the start of the working day or organised screenings for employees.
The World Cup debut drew supporters to fan zones across the country, where large screens were installed so communities could follow the match together.
Schools, parks and public spaces were transformed into temporary viewing areas, while Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent hosted one of the largest public screenings.
There, supporters reacted to every chance and every goal as Uzbekistan made its long-awaited arrival on football's biggest stage.
Hope despite the result
Outside Bunyodkor Stadium after the final whistle, the mood among supporters was not one of disappointment.
One fan described the match as a tough contest and said Uzbekistan had fought hard against a strong Colombian side.
“We believe that next time our team will win,” he said.
Another supporter recalled waking up an hour before kick-off and waiting for the match to begin.
When Fayzullayev scored Uzbekistan's first World Cup goal, he said the emotions were difficult to describe.
“Even now, when I remember that moment, I get goosebumps,” he said.
A third supporter said that participating in such a prestigious international tournament was already a source of pride and wished the team success in the upcoming matches.
Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev described the goal as a milestone for the country regardless of the final result.
“Our players showed strong character against a very experienced team," he said. "For us, our first goal at our first World Cup is also a victory.”
Uzbekistan's World Cup campaign continues on 23 June with a Group K meeting against Portugal.
The team remains without points after its opening match, but for many supporters the country's first-ever World Cup appearance had already delivered a moment worth celebrating.
