Match Report: Samarqand 2–1 Xorazm FA

Date: 31 May 2026 | Venue: Dinamo Samarqand Stadium
Competition: Uzbekistan Pro League B (UZB D1B)

Samarqand came from behind to claim a crucial 2–1 win over Xorazm FA in a tightly fought Uzbekistan Pro League B fixture. The victory strengthens Samarqand’s push for promotion to the top flight, while Xorazm remain stuck in mid‑table and see their slim hopes of a late surge diminish.

First‑Half Action

Xorazm FA stunned the home crowd by taking the lead in the 14th minute. A swift counter‑attack saw winger Aziz Rakhimov cut inside from the left and fire a low shot into the far corner. Samarqand responded well, dominating possession but lacking a cutting edge in the final third. Xorazm’s defence held firm until the 37th minute, when a foul in the box gave Samarqand a penalty. Midfielder Javokhir Sobirov stepped up and calmly converted to level the score at 1–1 going into half‑time.

Second‑Half Decider

The second half saw Samarqand push forward with intent. Their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when striker Abdumalik Rakhmonov headed home from a corner, despite protests from Xorazm players that the ball had gone out of play earlier in the move. The goal stood, and Samarqand then dropped deep to protect their lead. Xorazm pressed late but could not find an equaliser, with Samarqand goalkeeper Boburjon Ismoilov making a vital save in the 87th minute from a close‑range header.

Tactical Battle

Samarqand lined up in a 4‑3‑3, using the width of full‑backs Mirkomil Abdurakhmonov and Shohjahon Alimjonov to create overloads. Xorazm used a counter‑attacking 4‑5‑1, which worked well early but faded as the game wore on. Samarqand’s high press in midfield forced turnovers that led to the winning goal.

Key Performers

• Javokhir Sobirov – Scored the equalising penalty and controlled midfield tempo.
• Abdumalik Rakhmonov – Won the match with his header and held up play effectively.
• Boburjon Ismoilov – Made crucial late saves to keep Samarqand in front.

League Context

With this win, Samarqand climb to 42 points, four points clear in the third promotion spot. Xorazm remain on 33 points in eighth position, with only pride left to play for in their remaining fixtures. The result sets up an intriguing final few weeks in the Uzbekistan Pro League B.