Haydarov backs emerging Uzbekistan to flourish in World Cup qualifiers

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  • AGL stalwart: Haydarov (r).

    The White Wolves are looking to transfer their standing as one of Asia’s emerging teams into a debut berth in the globe’s premier event.

    Haydarov, 30 remains a key performer in this quest and he had no preference as to what happens during the ceremony in Malaysia.

    “For us, it is no problem who we get,” he said. “All 12 teams will be strong as now you see that every team is able to play football.

    “Our coach has told us that if we are to go to the World Cup, we will need to win every home game.”

    The 12 countries will be split into six pots determined by their placing in the FIFA rankings. The Uzbeks are in the third band, meaning they could be pitted against the UAE in one of the two, six-nation groups.

    Haydarov has become a familiar face in the Emirates since his switch to Shabab from Bunyodkor in 2011, scoring 12 goals in 97 appearances in the Arabian Gulf League.

    “For the UAE, this is my second team and I support them,” he said. “Congratulations to them for getting into the third round.

    “Sometimes if you are lucky, then Inshallah by hard work you will make the World Cup. The UAE have a chance of making the World Cup.

    “I would be happy if the UAE make the World Cup.”

    Samvel Babayan’s side dominated Group H during the second round, winning all but one of their fixtures. For Brazil 2014, they missed out on one of the four automatic berths on goal difference and lost 9-8 on penalties to Jordan in the battle to make the intercontinental play-off.

    “For my national team, I am feeling very well,” Haydarov said. “We made a good job in the previous round and won seven consecutive matches.

    “We now go into the final groups. We will work hard to go for the World Cup.”

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