India, South & Central Asia

Uzbekistan 3-1 Malaysia: Second Half Onslaught Slays The Tigers

It was a straightforward win for the hosts...

Nov 14, 2009 1:56:00 PM

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Server Djeparov, Uzbekistan

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Uzbekistan have almost qualified for the 2011 Asian Cup after a 3-1 win at home to an inexperienced Malaysia team.

The Central Asians just need a point in their remaining two games to book their place at the Qatar competition.

Malaysia sent a young team to Tashkent and the Tigers were second best for much of the match.

The damage was all done in the second half.

2008 AFC Player of the Year Server Djeparov broke the deadlock just after the restart.

Then striker Alexander Geynrikh came off the bench to kill the tie.

The substitute scored after 57 and 65 minutes to give the hosts the three points.

There was still time for Malaysia, preparing for the SEA games, to grab a consolation thanks to Mohamad Zaquan.

The result leaves Malaysia pointless after two matches and looking unlikely to pip Uzbekistan or UAE to one of the two qualification spots.