Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
Home
»
World Cup 2026
»
JALALIDDIN MASHARIPOV AND A JUGAR EL MUNDIAL 2026?
Jaloliddin Masharipov isn't a household name, but if you're involved in Asian football, you know this left-footed player is pure dynamite. Uzbekistan's number 10 has been key to his national team's progress, and many are wondering if we'll see him at the 2026 World Cup. Can Uzbekistan qualify? Is Masharipov still a key player? Will he have the physical and skill to make it? In this article, we analyze him with hard data, interesting facts, and a clear, football-focused approach—perfect for a pre-match chat with friends.
Masharipov, a key player for Uzbekistan and a star in Asia
Jaloliddin Masharipov has been, in recent years, the driving force behind the Uzbek national team's attack. A creative, fast midfielder with a powerful shot and excellent vision. Born in Tashkent, he developed at Pakhtakor and made the leap to more demanding leagues, including Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr, where he shared a dressing room with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Current season with Navbahor Namangan
In the 2024/25 season, Masharipov returned to Uzbekistan to play for Navbahor, where he is captain and a key player. In 26 matches he has scored 8 goals and provided 10 assists. He has also created 54 scoring opportunities and leads the tournament in key passes. His level has been constant, and although he is in a minor league, his influence is indisputable.
26 games played
8 goals and 10 assists
2.1 key passes per match
85% accuracy in short passes
Most voted player in the league's ideal XI
With the Uzbekistan national team
Masharipov has been one of the pillars of the Uzbek national team since 2016. He has 53 international caps and 11 goals. In the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, he has started in 5 of the 6 matches played so far, playing as an attacking midfielder or left winger.
53 matches with the national team
11 international goals
Captain in the last two official matches
3 assists in the current qualifying phase
He continues to be a leader on and off the field, and although there is a young generation pushing forward, Masharipov remains the difference-maker for the team. The one who can break lines with a pass or an individual play.
Can Uzbekistan qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Uzbekistan has never been to a World Cup, but it hasn't been far off. In several editions, it came within a hair's breadth of qualifying, falling short in playoffs or on goal difference. With a new qualifying format for Asia and more spots available (now 8 direct + 1 playoff), the dream is closer than ever.
Group and performance in the qualifiers
Uzbekistan is in the second round of the qualifying process, in Group E along with Iran, Turkmenistan, and Hong Kong. After four matches, it has 10 points, the result of 3 wins and 1 draw. They are currently second, tied with Iran, but with a lower goal difference. Even so, qualification for the next round seems very likely.
3 wins, 1 draw
10 points (same as Iran)
8 goals for, 2 against
Undefeated in 2025
If they advance, they will enter the final group of 6 teams, where the top two qualify directly for the World Cup and the third-placed team goes to the Asian playoff. Uzbekistan has never had such a strong campaign at this stage. With a more flexible system, new talent, and a fired-up Masharipov, the excitement is palpable.
Masharipov's Role
Masharipov brings more than just talent. He also has international experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of the Asian style of play. His role has evolved from pure game-changer to the central organizer. He's involved in every clear Uzbekistan attack.
At 33 (in 2026), he may not have the same spark as before, but he will possess tactical intelligence, refined technique, and vision. In teams like Uzbekistan, these types of players make all the difference.
Interesting Facts and Outlook for 2026
Masharipov is an interesting character. Discreet, but charismatic. Almost always with a serious face, but well-liked by his teammates and staff. He is an ambassador for modern Uzbek football, and his career is full of curious moments and unexpected turns.
Did you know...?
He studied business administration before becoming a professional footballer.
He was the first Uzbek to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
He has a youth foundation for footballers in Tashkent.
He speaks Uzbek, Russian, basic English, and some Arabic.
He is a fan of Real Madrid and Luka Modrić.
If Uzbekistan achieves a historic qualification, Masharipov has everything it takes to be among the 26 players called up. His experience, leadership, and connection with the group make his presence almost certain. Furthermore, he has maintained good physical condition, without any serious injuries in the last three years.
With his leadership and the maturity he has reached, he can be key in guiding the younger players in a World Cup that would be historic for the country. Many see him as the "captain of the miracle" if they qualify. And if they do, he will surely be a starter or a very influential substitute.
So yes, if Uzbekistan qualifies, Masharipov will be there. And it will be a living symbol of the growth of football in Central Asia.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED
