Gulistan secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lokomotiv BFK in the Uzbekistan D1B on Thursday, a result that strengthens their push for promotion. Played at the Gulistan Central Stadium, the match saw the hosts take an early lead, survive a spirited comeback, and then snatch the winner in the second half to delight the home supporters.

Match Overview

Gulistan came out of the blocks with real purpose and needed only 12 minutes to break the deadlock. A flowing move down the right ended with a low cross that striker Sardor Rashidov converted from close range. The early goal settled the home side, who continued to press and create chances. Lokomotiv BFK, however, gradually found their footing and equalised in the 34th minute through a stunning free-kick from captain Javlon Ibrokhimov, which curled into the top corner.

The second half was a more balanced affair, with both teams trading blows. Gulistan regained the lead in the 71st minute when substitute Azizbek Turgunov latched onto a through ball and finished coolly past the goalkeeper. Lokomotiv pushed for a second equaliser, but Gulistan’s defence held firm, securing a valuable three points.

Key Moments

• 12' – Sardor Rashidov opens the scoring for Gulistan with a close-range finish.
• 34' – Javlon Ibrokhimov equalises for Lokomotiv BFK with a superb free-kick.
• 58' – Gulistan’s goalkeeper makes a double save to deny Lokomotiv the lead.
• 71' – Azizbek Turgunov scores the winner for Gulistan after a slick team move.
• 88' – Lokomotiv hit the post from a corner, inches away from an equaliser.

Tactical Story

Gulistan set up in a 4-3-3, looking to use width and quick transitions. Their midfield trio controlled the tempo early on, but Lokomotiv’s switch to a 3-5-2 after the break caused problems. The visitors overloaded the flanks and forced Gulistan to defend deeper. The winning goal, however, came from a classic counter-attack, with Turgunov’s pace proving decisive.

Lokomotiv BFK will rue their missed chances. They had more possession in the second half but lacked precision in the final third. Their set-piece threat was evident, and the post denied them a late point.

Standout Players

Sardor Rashidov was a constant menace for Gulistan, his movement and finishing earning him the opener. Azizbek Turgunov made an instant impact off the bench, scoring the winner. For Lokomotiv, Javlon Ibrokhimov was excellent, dictating play and scoring a goal worthy of the highlight reel. Their goalkeeper, Bekzod Ergashev, also made several key saves to keep the score down.

Standings and What’s Next

With this win, Gulistan climb to fourth in the Uzbekistan D1B table, now just three points adrift of the promotion places. Lokomotiv BFK remain mid-table, but their performance showed they can compete with the division’s stronger sides. Gulistan will look to build on this result when they travel to face a fellow promotion contender next week, while Lokomotiv host a mid-table rival at home.