Samarqand 2-1 Nasaf Qarshi B: Late Resilience Secures Narrow Home Victory

Samarqand edged past Nasaf Qarshi B 2-1 in a competitive Uzbekistan D1B encounter on 26 September 2026, holding on after a tense final spell to claim all three points. The hosts built a two-goal lead through a dominant first-hour display, but a late reply from the visitors set up a nervy finish that Samarqand ultimately survived.

The result keeps Samarqand in the upper reaches of the First League table and highlights their ability to grind out results when not at their absolute best. Nasaf Qarshi B, the reserve outfit of the Qarshi-based top-flight club, showed spirit and tactical discipline but were left to rue a slow start.

Match Overview

Samarqand started brightly and controlled the opening exchanges with patient build-up play. Their midfield found pockets of space behind Nasaf's defensive line, and the pressure told midway through the first half. The second goal arrived early in the second period, seemingly putting the game beyond reach.

However, Nasaf Qarshi B responded well. They changed shape, pushed their full-backs higher, and began to create chances. A goal on 80 minutes gave them renewed belief, and Samarqand had to defend with concentration in the closing stages. The home side's experience and game management saw them through.

Key Moments

• 22nd minute – 1-0: Azizbek Kholmatov broke the deadlock with a curled effort from the edge of the box after a short corner routine.
• 45+1 minute: Nasaf Qarshi B nearly equalised, but a goal-line clearance kept Samarqand ahead at the break.
• 58th minute – 2-0: Bekzod Ergashev doubled the lead, heading in a precise cross from the left flank.
• 80th minute – 2-1: Doniyor Abdullayev pulled one back for Nasaf B, finishing calmly after a defensive mix-up.
• 90+4 minute: Samarqand goalkeeper produced a crucial save to deny a late equaliser, sealing the win.

Tactical Story

Samarqand set up in a 4-3-3 and looked to dominate possession through central midfield. Their numerical advantage in the middle allowed them to recycle the ball and stretch Nasaf's 4-4-2 block. The hosts' full-backs pushed high, creating width and delivering crosses that led to the second goal.

Nasaf Qarshi B adapted after the break, switching to a back three and committing more players forward. That change gave them a foothold and produced the goal that made it 2-1. Samarqand then dropped deeper, protecting their lead with a compact defensive shape. It was a classic case of game management versus youthful ambition.

Standout Players

Azizbek Kholmatov was instrumental for Samarqand, scoring the opener and dictating the tempo in midfield. Bekzod Ergashev provided a constant aerial threat and scored the decisive second. In defence, captain Rustam Yuldashev led by example, making several important interceptions.

For Nasaf Qarshi B, Doniyor Abdullayev took his goal well and was a bright spark in the second half. Young midfielder Javokhir Sultonov also impressed with his energy and willingness to drive forward. Despite the loss, the reserve side showed why they are a competitive force in the division.

Season Impact and Table Context

With this 2-1 win, Samarqand collect three hard-earned points that keep them in the promotion conversation. Their home form has become a foundation for their campaign, and victories like this one could prove crucial in the final standings. Nasaf Qarshi B remain a development-focused side, but their performance will give their coaching staff plenty of positives.

The head-to-head record between these two teams is now tighter, and the reverse fixture later in the season will carry added significance. For Samarqand, the challenge is to maintain consistency, while Nasaf B will look to convert spirited displays into points. In a league where margins are thin, this match was another reminder of how valuable late defensive resilience can be.