Uzbekistan head coach Islombek Ismoilov said his offensive strategy will not change.

“We will not change our style, but will of course adapt to the match situation. These are two attacking teams who are playing each other, and we know we need to create more chances and score goals to win,” said Ismoilov, who praised every member of his squad.

“It’s not just the players who are working hard to ensure our success. Everyone is playing their part, from the coaches to the medical staff. It is not easy playing in temperatures above sea level, it takes effort from all involved to ensure the players are ready to perform.

“DPR Korea are a good team. We have analysed all their matches, and will be ready for them,” he added.

Uzbekistan midfielder Sadriddin Khasanov is ready to translate their preparation into performance on the pitch.

“The coach knows how to get the best of us. We will be out to win this match,” he said.

DPR Korea, meanwhile, began their Saudi Arabia 2025 Group C campaign with a 1-1 stalemate against Islamic Republic of Iran, before beating Tajikistan 3-0 and playing out a 2-2 draw against Oman.

Head coach O Thae Song may not require a massive motivational team talk to his players who went goal-crazy in the 6-0 success over Indonesia in the quarter-finals but he knows Uzbekistan are a different proposition altogether.

“The Uzbekistan players are physically strong and individually skillful. They are the only team who have won all their matches so far. We will be competing against a tough team, but we are ready for them,” he said.

DPR Korea defender Choe Song Hun, who scored against Indonesia, has promised the match will live up to expectations.

“We will be out to score goals and get the win,” he said. 

Venue: King Fadh Sports City Stadium (Taif)

Kick-off: Thursday, 20:15 (UTC+3)