Football in Tashkent is not just a game; it's a part of everyday life. On the streets of the city, you can see children with balls, dressed in uniforms and cleats, and sometimes even with referees. Their serious games resemble adult matches.
In public transport, it quickly becomes clear who is a fan of whom. If someone is wearing a "Pakhtakor" jersey, it's a sign to start a conversation about football. Uzbeks can discuss the latest matches and transfers for hours, especially if their team has won.
On the bus, one man shared memories of how, in his childhood, they made balls out of rags. Now, however, the youth have sports gear that is significantly better than what professionals had in the past. The progress is evident.
Stadiums Where Everything Happens
National Stadium
Previously known as "Bunyodkor," this stadium is now called the National Stadium and can accommodate 34,000 spectators. It is located in the Chilanzar district and was opened in 2012, timed to coincide with the centenary of local football.
Interestingly, the first stone of its foundation was laid by the president of "Barcelona," Joan Laporta, and Spanish specialists consulted on the project. In the evening, the stadium is illuminated, creating a beautiful spectacle called "Flame of the East."
The stadium's territory is vast — 37 hectares, including the main field and seven training fields. Inside, there is a football museum, as well as an underground parking lot for 350 cars. VIP boxes and facilities for people with disabilities are also provided.
According to a security guard, some players perform rituals before matches: some pray, others make the sign of the cross. Superstitions play a significant role, and they enter the field via the same route.
"Pakhtakor"
This stadium, which accommodates 35,000 spectators, may be old, but it has its own atmosphere. Previously, the national team played here, and now the club of the same name performs.
During the derby between "Pakhtakor" and "Bunyodkor," there is a real storm of emotions: fans sing, play drums, and unfurl huge banners. Tickets for this event sell out a week in advance, and scalpers then sell them at exorbitant prices, but spectators still come — it's worth it.
[b]"JAR"
The "JAR" stadium accommodates 8,460 spectators and is owned by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, ensuring strict order. The national team trains here.
It is remembered how in 2009, Ronaldo held a master class at this stadium — there were so many people that there was no room for an apple to fall. Locals still fondly recall this event.
Interestingly, "JAR" translates from Uzbek as "gully," as the stadium is built in a lowland where there is almost no wind, which is convenient for players.
[b]National Team Performances
Uzbekistan shows commendable results in the Asian Cup, reaching the round of 16 in 2019 and finishing in 10th place.
At the 2024 Asian Championship, the team played brilliantly, defeating Thailand 2-1 in the playoffs. The first goal was scored by Turgunboev, and the winning goal by Faizullaev from CSKA.
High-ranking guests, such as the Attorney General and the former mayor of the city, Artikhodjaev, attended the match, highlighting the serious attitude towards football in the country.
Clubs also show excellent results — "Pakhtakor," "Bunyodkor," and "Nasaf" garner support from almost the entire country, with "Nasaf" being particularly strong in Asia.
Coach Katanec noted after the game with Australia: "We are also a tough opponent." This confirms that Uzbekistan fears no one.
Nearby Match Venues
Independence Square
This is the center of the city, where the famous Tashkent clock is located, the mechanism of which was brought from Prussia as a trophy after the war.
Locals often say, "Let's meet by the clock," and everyone knows where that is. There are many fountains around that provide relief from the heat.
In the evening, the square fills with youth, families with children, and ice cream lovers. Life here buzzes until late at night.
Metro
The Tashkent Metro, the first in Central Asia, has been operating since 1977. It includes 67 kilometers of tracks and 50 stations, each of which looks like a museum.
Be sure to visit the "Cosmonauts," "Badamzar," and "Alisher Navoi" stations with their marble and stucco. Previously, photography was prohibited here, but now it is allowed.
The older generation remembers how the metro was built and recounts that Muscovites helped with the technology. It turned out no worse than Moscow's.
Chorsu
This is a classic Eastern market, where traders remember each customer and can talk for half an hour about any item. Bargaining here is sacred, and if you don't bargain, you show disrespect to the seller.
In the morning, there are fewer people at the market, and fresh products are available. By lunchtime, the heat begins, and the crowd intensifies. Be sure to try the local fruits — sellers are eager to offer them.
Hazrat Imam
This complex from the 16th century includes two mosques, two madrasahs, and a mausoleum. The main relic is the Quran of Caliph Osman on deer skin, dating back to the 8th-9th centuries.
Many football players stop by here before important games to pray and focus. This place has a strong energy.
The guide mentioned that tourists from all over the world come to see the unique Quran — there are very few such copies in the world.
Where to Relax
Navoi Park
The park features greenery, fountains, and benches. Children can enjoy the rides, while adults can enjoy the tranquility.
On weekends, young footballers train here, and watching them, one might think that a future Messi is running among them. Amateur tournaments are often held here.
Grandfathers play chess, and grandmothers babysit their grandchildren. This is a tranquil scene that is perfect for relaxing after an intense match.
Television Tower
The 375-meter-high television tower offers an observation deck and a revolving restaurant. From there, you can see the entire city, including all the stadiums and suburban training bases.
A fast elevator takes you to the top in a minute. At first, it may seem scary, but then you get used to the height. The views from above are impressive.
Charvak
Located an hour's drive from the city, this mountain lake has warm water (+25°C) in summer. Football players often spend their off-season there. On the beach, you can meet players from different clubs. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular here.
Locals love to spend weekends with their families, grilling kebabs and swimming in the water. The clean mountain air is a great remedy for urban smog.
Culinary Delights
The center of pilaf "Besh Qozon" is the best place where chefs prepare pilaf in huge cauldrons over an open fire. This process is mesmerizing.
In Tashkent, there are several "Pilaf Centers," where pilaf is not just food but a whole culture. Football players love it, but coaches strictly monitor their diet. However, fans have access to everything.
Don't forget to try samsa and local fruits — they are incredibly delicious.
Every Wednesday, they prepare Osh-pulav, and it's a tradition to eat pilaf in the middle of the week. The lines are long, but the wait is worth it.
Tea houses operate until late at night, and green tea is consumed by the liter. It is said to help in the heat, and it truly does.
Modern Life
Tashkent City
A new business district with malls, restaurants, and cinemas. Many football agents work here, so you might accidentally meet a famous player.
Skyscrapers are rising in place of vacant lots, turning the area into a mini-Dubai. Progress is unstoppable.
Japanese Garden
A peaceful place in the city center with bridges, ponds, and paths. Football players come here to meditate before important games, which helps them focus.
The designers are Japanese, and everything is built according to feng shui. The energy here is indeed special, and even skeptics acknowledge it.
Useful Recommendations
Locals are very friendly and will gladly give directions or talk about matches. Some may invite you for tea after a short conversation.
It’s better to buy tickets for national team matches in advance — they sell out quickly. Downloading DB bet can help track schedules and results.
Merchandise is sold near the stadiums: scarves, jerseys, as well as quality fakes.
Families come to matches in Tashkent — children, parents, and grandparents support the team together. This is a tradition.
Minibuses to the stadiums run frequently, and drivers enthusiastically talk about football along the way. This is a great way to explore the city.
It's better not to wear the rival's jersey to avoid misunderstandings. Neutral clothing would be more appropriate.
Additional Information
Tashkent has many places to visit. The old city enchants with history, while the new districts offer shopping. The city is contrasting but cozy.
What to see in Tashkent — everyone decides for themselves. Ancient madrasahs or modern business centers — there is a special atmosphere everywhere.
Tashkent lives football. This energy is felt everywhere. Arriving as a fan, you leave in love with this city.
The football season lasts from March to November, and in winter, players rest while fans gather in cafes discussing matches. Everyone misses the game.
