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Panov proud of Uzbekistan’s journey

Panov proud of Uzbekistan’s journey

Pathum Thani: Heartbreak and pride were the two emotions Vladimir Panov was grappling with as his Uzbekistan side exited the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ following a 2-1 defeat to China PR in the quarter-finals.
Despite being firmly outplayed in the first half and trailing by two goals, the Central Asians produced a gritty second-half performance, pulling one back and nearly equalising in the final 10 minutes.
#U20WAC | Q-final: China PR 2-1 Uzbekistan

#U20WAC | Q-final: China PR 2-1 Uzbekistan

Missing out after coming so close to a semi-final berth and a ticket to the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 might have left much of the squad in tears after the final whistle, but not without earning Panov’s sincere admiration.

“We were just a little bit unlucky and I am 100 percent proud of the girls,” said the 46-year-old. “In the first half, they were a little nervous and were afraid to take chances, but the way they played after the break has filled me with pride."
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“During half-time, I just gave them a pep talk, tried to make them feel a little refreshed,  and suggested some tactical changes, which they applied well in the second half, and so, I have no complaints,” he continued.

“They’re sad and crying now, but I just want to applaud how bravely they played.”
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While the quarter-final tie marked the end of the road for Uzbekistan in this edition, it was also the furthest the nation has ever progressed, with all previous campaigns ending at the group stage, and Panov was eager to take a moment to acknowledge the achievement.

“Even though we lost, we have achieved a lot in this tournament and this is a big step forward,” he said. 

“I think we have a good squad for the future, and we must work with these girls and keep moving forward, which, I am sure, will lead to very good results in the years to come.”

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