Match Report: Azure 3–1 Samarqand – UZB D1B

A dominant first-half performance powered Azure to a comfortable 3–1 victory over Samarqand in the UZB D1B on 7 June 2026. The match at the Azure Stadium kicked off at 20:30 local time, and the home side wasted no time in asserting their authority, racing to a three-goal lead before the interval.

First Half Onslaught

Azure took the lead inside ten minutes. A sweeping move ended with winger Otabek Ruziyev cutting in from the left and firing a powerful shot into the far corner. The second goal arrived in the 28th minute: a pinpoint cross from midfielder Abdurahim Sattorov was met by the head of Mirjalol Yuldashev, who nodded in at the back post. Before Samarqand could regroup, Yuldashev struck again in the 44th minute, turning home a rebound after a free kick was parried.

Second Half Stalemate

Samarqand emerged after the break with renewed determination, but Azure defended resolutely. The visitors pulled one back in the 62nd minute through Elmurod Abdurazzaqov, who finished a neat one-two on the edge of the box. Despite pressing for a second, Samarqand could not breach Azure's defence again. Azure goalkeeper Umidjon Ismoilov made a fine save from a header in the 81st minute to preserve the margin.

Standout Performers

• Mirjalol Yuldashev (Azure) – A clinical brace from the centre-forward, showcasing excellent positioning.
• Otabek Ruziyev (Azure) – Constant menace down the left, scoring one and creating chances.
• Azure's high press disrupted Samarqand's build-up, forcing numerous turnovers in dangerous areas.

Table and Promotion Implications

The victory cements Azure's position in the top three of UZB D1B, keeping them firmly in the promotion race. Samarqand remain stuck in the lower half of the table, now six points adrift of the top six. Azure's explosive first-half performance will send a warning to the league leaders about their attacking potential.