Metallurg Bekobod came from behind to defeat Aral Nukus 2‑1 in an Uzbekistan Cup second‑round tie at the Central Stadium in Bekobod on 16 May 2026. The win secures Metallurg’s passage to the next round, while Aral Nukus exit the competition after a spirited display.

First Half: Aral Nukus Strike First

The visitors, who play in the Uzbekistan Pro League (second tier), started brightly and caught Metallurg cold in the 17th minute. A long ball over the top caught the home defence napping, and Aral Nukus striker Rustam Khayrullaev raced through to slot past the advancing goalkeeper – 1‑0 to the underdogs.

Metallurg Bekobod, currently mid‑table in the Uzbekistan Super League, struggled to find their rhythm in the opening half-hour. Their passing was sloppy, and Aral Nukus defended with discipline. Gradually, the home side grew into the game, and they began to create chances. A powerful shot from midfielder Jaloliddin Mamatkulov was tipped onto the crossbar by Aral’s goalkeeper in the 39th minute, but the score remained 1‑0 at half‑time.

Second Half: Metallurg Turn the Tables

Metallurg came out with renewed intensity after the break. They pushed Aral Nukus deep into their own half and equalised in the 54th minute. A flowing team move ended with right‑back Aziz Normurodov crossing for striker Shokhrukh Makhmudov, who headed home from close range. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters.

With the momentum now firmly in their favour, Metallurg searched for a winner. It arrived in the 73rd minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Winger Abdukhamid Ismoilov collected the ball on the left flank, cut inside past two defenders, and unleashed a curling shot into the far corner that gave the goalkeeper no chance – 2‑1.

Aral Nukus threw everything forward in the final 15 minutes, but Metallurg held firm. A late free‑kick from Khayrullaev was well saved by the home goalkeeper, ensuring the Super League side progressed.

Match Statistics & Impact

• Possession: Metallurg 62% – 38% Aral Nukus
• Shots on target: Metallurg 7 – 4 Aral Nukus
• Metallurg Bekobod advance to the Uzbekistan Cup third round, where they will face fellow Super League side AGMK.
• Aral Nukus exit the competition but can take pride in a performance that troubled higher‑level opposition.

Star Performers

Abdukhamid Ismoilov was the hero for Metallurg, scoring the winner and causing problems throughout the second half. Midfielder Jaloliddin Mamatkulov dictated the tempo after the break. For Aral Nukus, Rustam Khayrullaev scored a fine opener and was a constant threat on the counter.

Metallurg Bekobod will now turn their attention back to league duties before the next cup round, while Aral Nukus focus on their push for promotion back to the Super League.