AFC Women's Asian Cup - Karachik ready to lead Uzbekistan’s return

Sydney: For Lyudmila Karachik, when Uzbekistan take on DPR Korea in their Group B opener at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ on Tuesday, it will be about making the most of the opportunity to demonstrate the team’s quality on the continent’s biggest stage.

In returning to Asia’s premier women’s national team competition for the first time in 23 years, Karachik played a central role, scoring twice in the Qualifiers.

Now, as the Central Asian side face the daunting task of opening their campaign against three-time champions DPR Korea, the PFC Nasaf forward hopes to prove their worth among Asia’s elite.

“We are happy to be here. This is our first time in this tournament in a long time, and we are very honoured to be part of the competition and show how Uzbekistan can play in a big tournament,” she said.

“I’m really excited for tomorrow’s game. We all know that we are facing a very strong team, but we will show a strong game, there will be a good fight and I am sure there will be plenty of good moments.

“The mood in the dressing room is very positive because we have had many training camps before coming to Australia and are focused on having a good match, not just on Tuesday, but in all the games that are ahead of us.”

As one of the senior members of the squad, the 31-year-old has assumed a mentoring role within a youthful dressing room, but insists the learning process flows both ways.

“I’m one of the senior and more experienced players, and we have many young players in our team as well,” she said.

“In this kind of tournament, there is always an exchange. I take something from them, and they take something from us. It’s always an exchange of experience and energy in the dressing room.”

Karachik ready to lead Uzbekistan’s return

Chae out to prove she belongs

Catley: Mum is my biggest influence

Australia’s Montemurro focuses on positives; Torcaso proud of Philippines' effort

AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ match schedule unveiled

Preview - R16 (1st Leg): Gangwon FC (KOR) v FC Machida Zelvia (JPN)