Akhmedov urges Uzbek clubs to aim for ACL

Odil Akhmedov has directly challenged Uzbekistan's clubs to aim for the semi-finals in the upcoming AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27. The former national team midfielder, in an interview with the-AFC.com, stated that reaching the last four would represent a very good result for Pakhtakor and PFC Neftchi.

Reaching the semi-finals is the best Uzbekistan clubs have managed on Asia's highest stage. This feat has been achieved four times, shared equally by Pakhtakor and FC Bunyodkor.

**Aiming High in a New Era**

Akhmedov believes the current climate is right for a breakthrough. Uzbekistan football is enjoying a purple patch. This is highlighted by various national team age-group successes and a first FIFA World Cup appearance. "Uzbekistan football is improving year by year," said Akhmedov. "Strong teams always have good players. We have a lot of talented young players."

He acknowledges past shortcomings but sees progress. "It is better these days but there are still some weaknesses we can improve on." His call to aim high is for Pakhtakor, the club he debuted for at 18, and Neftchi. Both will be on the continental stage and can check the competition standings as the campaign develops.

**The Continental Challenge**

The former midfielder is clear about the scale of the task. He named the reigning champions and other powerhouses as the main obstacles. "Al Ahli (Saudi FC) are the champions and they are looking strong as well this time around but the Japanese and Korean teams will also be there to compete for the title."

He believes self-belief is key. "Pakhtakor and Neftchi will have a challenge on their hands but if they can produce good football, to be able to reach the semi-finals would represent a very good result for the clubs." Their journey begins with the fixtures in the AFC Champions League Elite group stage.

**Foundation for Success**

Akhmedov's own career gives him perspective. He played in the Russian Premier League with Anzhi Makhachkala and FC Krasnodar, sharing a dressing room with stars like Roberto Carlos and Samuel Eto'o. He later returned to Asian football with Shanghai SIPG FC in the Chinese Super League.

He credits systemic support for the nation's rise. "The President of UFA has done a lot for football in Uzbekistan with his attention and support. He has built many academies and stadiums." This infrastructure, he argues, is yielding results at all levels.

"The game is now developing properly in the country," Akhmedov concluded. "We are regularly participating in Asian and world championships, with many players playing for foreign clubs so I'm confident that we will continue to grow." The performance of the nation's players, both at home and abroad, can be tracked through their stats.

Having earned over 100 caps for Uzbekistan, Akhmedov retired in 2021 after stints with Tianjin Teda and Cangzhou Mighty Lions in China.