Head coach Ilkhom Khanjariev, in expressing satisfaction with his side’s preparations, is eyeing a semi-final spot that will confirm Uzbekistan’s tickets to FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024.

The return of key players Zarina Mamatkarimov, Sevinch Kuchkorova, Zarina Norboeva and Leyla Rustullaeva – who were all part of the Uzbekistan senior squad that played against Australia in the recent Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 2024™ Asian Qualifiers Round 3 – has further boosted the squad’s morale.

“We’ve spent a year preparing for the tournament,” said Khanjariev. “Our squad is in optimal condition for the tournament, which we believe will boost women’s football in our nation.

“Our key players, despite minor injuries, will join the team following the conclusion of the AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament against Australia.

“Our opening match against Chinese Taipei will be difficult given their recent progress, however, our goal is clear which is to secure qualification for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.”

Experience will be something that Hsieh Chih-chun and his Chinese Taipei team will be lacking comparatively with only forward Li Yi-wen part of the senior team that played in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 2024™ Asian Qualifiers Round 2.

Hsieh, however, will be counting on the likes of forward Lin Jing-xuan and defender Li Chun-mei – who have the experience of playing continental club matches with Hualien Women’s Football Team in the AFC Women’s Club Championship™ ۲۰۲۳ – to add steel to his team.