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Uzbekistan makes its World Cup debut, a first for Central Asia

NPR News · Jun 27, 2026, 1:45 PM · Also reported by 2 other sources

Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.

The country is the first Central Asian nation to qualify for the World Cup, and Uzbek fans have reveled in showcasing their country and culture. The country's president calls the team a symbol of the "new Uzbekistan."

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Uzbekistan makes its World Cup debut, a first for Central Asia

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