Record-breaking Eldor Shomurodov carrying the Uzbek football torch - and how!
Dubbed 'the Uzbek Messi’, Shomurodov is Uzbekistan’s all-time leading scorer
Eldor Shomurodov has scored 37 international goals for Uzbekistan, surpassing Maxim Shatskikh’s tally of 34
Shomurodov played a pivotal role in Roma’s victory in the 2021/22 UEFA Europa Conference League
Shomurodov made his debut for the Uzbekistan national team on September 3, 2015
Shilarze Saha Roy
In sports, particularly football, comparisons to the greats are not bestowed lightly. On top of that, to be likened to Lionel Messi, an Argentine living legend, is to have the weight of expectations placed upon one’s shoulders. However, in the case of Eldor Shomurodov, the Uzbekistan national team captain, the label of “the Uzbek Messi” carries an air of both reverence and anticipation. A striker of immense talent, Shomurodov possesses the rare ability to mesmerise with his skill, ignite stadiums with his goals, and inspire a nation with his passion. Much like Messi, he has also strived to create his own unique path.
Recently, the 27-year-old etched his name into the annals of Uzbekistan’s footballing history. On June 14, in a CAFA Nations Cup match against Turkmenistan, Eldor Shomurodov scored a brace to surpass compatriot Maxim Shatskikh’s record and become the all-time leading scorer for the White Wolves, the nickname of the Uzbekistan national team. At the time of writing, Shomurodov has 37 international goals to his name from 65 matches. Shatskikh had scored 34 goals in 61 caps between 1999 and 2014. Shomurodov, with his exceptional blend of goal-scoring prowess and playmaking abilities, is a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. Capable of unleashing powerful shots or delivering precise assists, he possesses the versatility to occupy various positions in the attacking line. His explosive speed and acceleration leave defenders in his wake, while his physical strength enables him to dominate in aerial battles. Eldor Shomurodov’s dynamic playing style allows him to attack spaces with finesse, leaving opposition defences scrambling to contain his relentless onslaught. Inspired by the exploits of former Ivory Coast star Didier Drogba and Spain great Fernando Torres during his childhood, Shomurodov embarked on a quest to emulate their success. Studying their games meticulously, he absorbed the nuances of their craft, assimilating their technique and infusing it with his innate talent. The result is a footballer who has thus far encapsulated spectators with his dribbling, vision, and ability to change the course of a game single-handedly.
Born on June 29, 1995, in the quaint town of Jarqoʻrgʻon in Uzbekistan, Shomurodov’s journey to becoming Uzbekistan’s all-time top scorer was challenging. His early years saw him honing his skills at local clubs, Mash’al Mubarek and Bunyodkor, where his talent began to catch the eye of astute scouts. In 2017, the Russian Premier League came calling, and Eldor Shomurodov embarked on a new chapter, joining FC Rostov. Three fruitful seasons in Russia showcased his ability to find the back of the net with unerring accuracy, earning him acclaim and recognition. In 2020, Serie A beckoned, and Shomurodov seized the opportunity, securing an €8 million move to Genoa. Italy’s top-flight league provided the stage upon which he could showcase his prodigious talents to a wider audience. His debut season was nothing short of impressive, as he exhibited his predatory instincts, finding the back of the net eight times, including a memorable brace in a thrilling 4-3 loss to Atalanta. Shomurodov’s exploits on Italian soil earned him a reputation as one of the most promising talents in world football, placing him in the spotlight of clubs across Europe. August 2, 2021, marked another pivotal moment in Eldor Shomurodov’s career as AS Roma announced his acquisition on a five-year contract worth €17.5 million plus bonuses. Under the guidance of esteemed manager Jose Mourinho, he began a new chapter. Although initially used as a substitute, Shomurodov showcased his resilience and hunger for success. He found the back of the net on three occasions in the league and contributed to Roma’s triumph in the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League, where he made a late appearance to secure victory, etching his name in history once again.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of club football, Shomurodov has continued to represent his nation diligently. His international journey began on September 3, 2015, when he made his debut for the Uzbekistan national team in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Yemen. Just a month later, he scored his first goal in a resounding 4-0 victory over Bahrain. Eldor Shomurodov’s impact continued to grow, earning him a place in the squad for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. As a substitute, he scored a late winner against Oman in a group match and followed it up with two goals in a dominant 4-0 win over Turkmenistan. Despite a 2-1 loss to Japan in the group, both teams progressed in the tournament. He displayed his goal-scoring prowess further in the Nowruz Cup final, netting a memorable hat-trick in a 4-2 victory over Uganda on March 29, 2022. In the 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualifier against the Maldives, Shomurodov scored three more goals, finishing the campaign as the second-highest scorer with 10 goals, trailing only Ali Mabkhout of the United Arab Emirates. With each goal scored, Eldor Shomurodov not only adds to his growing collection of remarkable achievements but also reinforces his status as a vital asset for the Uzbekistan national team.