The highly anticipated clash between Uzbekistan U23 and South Korea U23 is set to take place on January 13, 2026, at 11:30 GMT+0 at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match forms part of the Group C stage in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, a crucial encounter as both teams vie for advancement in this competitive youth tournament hosted by Saudi Arabia for the first time. Specific referee details have not been widely announced yet, but the game promises intense tactical battles typical of Asian youth football at this level.
This fixture carries significant weight in Group C, where points are vital for progressing to the knockout rounds. Uzbekistan enters with solid recent momentum, while South Korea aims to leverage their pedigree as former champions. Fans can expect a balanced contest featuring emerging talents from both nations.
BETTING TIPS AND MATCH INSIGHTS
As we dive deeper into the data, key factors like recent performances, head-to-head history, and current group dynamics will shape expectations. Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 prediction today highlights a matchup where defensive resilience and counter-attacking efficiency could prove decisive. Both sides have shown flashes of quality in the tournament so far, making this a pivotal game for their qualification hopes. Bettors should closely monitor line movements and team news ahead of kickoff. The clash offers value across various markets, given the balanced nature of the teams.
Uzbekistan U23 Results
Uzbekistan U23 has displayed consistent competitiveness in recent outings, blending solid defense with opportunistic attacks. Their form leading into this decisive group match reflects a team building confidence through results.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 10.01.26 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | Iran U23 vs Uzbekistan U23 | 0-0 | D |
| 07.01.26 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | Uzbekistan U23 vs Lebanon U23 | 3-2 | W |
| 09.09.25 | ASC Qualifiers | Uzbekistan U23 vs Palestine U23 | 2-1 | W |
| 06.09.25 | ASC Qualifiers | Kyrgyzstan U23 vs Uzbekistan U23 | 2-2 | D |
| 03.09.25 | ASC Qualifiers | Uzbekistan U23 vs Sri Lanka U23 | 4-0 | W |
Uzbekistan has remained unbeaten in their last five matches across competitions. They secured a hard-fought draw against strong Iran recently and followed it with a narrow win over Lebanon in the group opener. Their defensive organization stands out, conceding few goals while maintaining threat on counters. This steady run positions them well for the upcoming challenge against South Korea.
South Korea U23 Results
South Korea U23 enters this fixture with a mix of experience and attacking flair, drawing on their history as multiple-time contenders. Their recent performances indicate a side capable of explosive moments despite occasional defensive lapses.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 10.01.26 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | Lebanon U23 vs South Korea U23 | 2-4 | W |
| 07.01.26 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | South Korea U23 vs Iran U23 | 0-0 | D |
| 26.12.25 | Friendly | South Korea U23 vs Syria U23 | 1-0 | W |
| 14.10.25 | Friendly | Saudi Arabia U23 vs South Korea U23 | 2-0 | L |
| 10.10.25 | Friendly | Saudi Arabia U23 vs South Korea U23 | 4-0 | L |
South Korea bounced back strongly with a convincing victory over Lebanon after a stalemate against Iran. Their attacking output has been impressive in the tournament, netting multiple goals when opportunities arise. Earlier friendly losses highlight vulnerabilities against organized defenses, but their current group form suggests improvement and high motivation.
Head-to-Head: Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 (Last 5 Matches)
The rivalry between these two sides has produced competitive and often high-scoring encounters over the years. South Korea holds a slight edge historically, but Uzbekistan has shown capability to challenge.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 04.10.23 | Asian Games | South Korea U23 vs Uzbekistan U23 | 2-1 |
| 15.01.20 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 | 1-2 |
| 27.08.18 | Asian Games | Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 | 3-4 (3-3 after ET) |
| 23.01.18 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 | 4-1 (1-1 after ET) |
| 13.01.16 | AFC U23 Asian Cup | South Korea U23 vs Uzbekistan U23 | 2-1 |
South Korea has won the majority of these recent clashes, often in tight margins. Uzbekistan’s notable upset in 2018 stands out, but the trend favors the Koreans in crucial moments. Expect another closely fought battle with goals likely.
Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 – Predicted Starting Lineups
Predicted lineups are based on the most recent tournament performances, tactical preferences of the coaches, and current fitness reports available as of January 12, 2026. These are educated forecasts and may change due to last-minute decisions, injuries, or tactical adjustments. Both teams are expected to field their strongest available XI for this decisive Group C clash in the AFC U23 Asian Cup.
Uzbekistan U23 possible starting lineup
Muratbaev (GK), Karimov (DF), Rizakolov (DF), Abdullaev (DF), Khamidov (DF), Bakhromov (MF), Khayrullaev (MF), Ibraimov (MF), Saidnurullaev (MF), Jumaev (MF), Saidov (FW)
South Korea U23 possible starting lineup
Hong (GK), Geon-hee (DF), Hyun-Yong (DF), Shin (DF), Bae (DF), Kang (MF), Han-Seo (MF), Chan-Wook (MF), Jeong (FW), Kim (FW), Hung (FW)
Key Match Insights and Factors to Watch
This pivotal Group C encounter features several elements that could swing the outcome. Both teams have points on the board, adding extra intensity.
- Uzbekistan comes off a gritty 0-0 draw with Iran, showcasing defensive solidity;
- South Korea’s attacking prowess shone in their 4-2 win over Lebanon;
- No major reported injuries for either side based on latest updates;
- Uzbekistan’s unbeaten run in recent matches builds confidence;
- South Korea’s historical dominance in H2H adds psychological edge;
- Tournament motivation is high, with quarterfinal spots at stake;
- Key players returning or in form could influence midfield battles;
- Weather in Riyadh remains favorable, supporting open play.
Free Tips on Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23
This section provides practical, data-driven betting advice tailored to the Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 clash in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Group C. Drawing from recent form, head-to-head patterns, and match productivity trends, these tips highlight value opportunities without overlapping broader key factors. Focus on statistics from the last five encounters and current tournament performances to inform smarter decisions.
- Productive H2H trend favors goals: Four of the last five head-to-head meetings between these sides produced over 2.5 total goals, including high-scoring affairs like 3-4 and 4-1 results, suggesting a strong case for betting on an open, goal-heavy game given both teams’ attacking intent in recent outings.
- South Korea’s attacking edge in recent matches: After scoring four goals in their 4-2 win over Lebanon, South Korea demonstrates consistent threat in front of goal during the tournament, making their team total over a reliable angle against Uzbekistan’s occasionally leaky defense seen in the 3-2 victory over Lebanon.
- Uzbekistan’s unbeaten momentum builds resilience: With no losses in their last five games across competitions and a solid defensive showing in the 0-0 draw against Iran, Uzbekistan offers value in draw no bet or underdog markets, especially as they thrive in tight, competitive scenarios.
- Historical South Korean dominance in tight margins: South Korea has won three of the last five H2H clashes, often by narrow one-goal differences, pointing toward potential success in Asian handicap lines favoring them slightly in this balanced rivalry encounter.
- High-scoring pattern in Uzbekistan’s recent fixtures: Uzbekistan’s matches frequently see both teams contributing, as evidenced by goals in four of their last five games (including 3-2 and 2-2 results), supporting bets on both teams to score when facing strong opponents like South Korea.
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Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 Match Prediction
In this tightly contested affair, South Korea U23 holds a marginal advantage due to their superior attacking quality and experience in high-stakes youth tournaments. Uzbekistan has impressed with resilience and organization, particularly in their recent draw against Iran and win over Lebanon, but South Korea’s ability to exploit transitions and score in bursts makes them slight favorite. Uzbekistan U23 vs South Korea U23 odds reflect this balance, with value potentially in over goals or Asian handicap markets. South Korea’s recent 4-2 thrashing of Lebanon highlights their firepower, while Uzbekistan’s defensive setup could keep it close. Overall, expect a competitive game where South Korea edges it 2-1 or similar, advancing their group progression hopes. The tactical discipline from both coaches will be key, but South Korea’s pedigree tips the scales narrowly in their favor.
Our Prediction: Uzbekistan U23 1-2 South Korea U23
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | South Korea U23 Win | 2.36 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.88 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 | 2.3 |
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