Uzbekistan earns hard-fought 2-1 win over Oman in Asian Cup

Sharjah: Uzbekistan topped Oman 2-1 at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group F contest held at Sharjah Stadium here on Wednesday.

Uzbekistan midfielder Odil Ahmedov scored in the 34th minute with a free-kick that sent the ball to the goal's bottom right corner, securing a 1-0 lead for his side before half-time, reports Efe news.

After the break, Oman's substitute forward Muhsen Al Ghassani drew his side level in the 72nd minute on a left-footed shot seizing on an assist by teammate Ali Al-Busaidi.

Then in the closing minutes, forward Eldor Shomurodov netted Uzbekistan's 2-1 winner, just two minutes after entering the pitch, on a left-footed shot from inside the box, off a pass from Ikromjon Alibaev following a fast counterattack.

Uzbekistan defender Egor Krimets was sent off the pitch after committing a red card-worthy foul in the second minute of injury time, but his side maintained the advantage till the final whistle.

With the win, Uzbekistan holds the table's second spot with three points, on goal differential behind leader Japan, who defeated Turkmenistan 3-2 earlier on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Oman fell to the fourth and last place with no points, also on goal differential behind third-placed Turkmenistan.