AFC U17 Asian Cup
The small-statured Shoev struck the second goal in his side’s well-deserved 3-1 win over Islamic Republic of Iran in their final AFC U17 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2025 group tie, which lifted them to the top of Group D and paved the way for an enticing quarter-final showdown with Korea Republic on Monday.
“I can’t describe how I felt when I scored,” said the 17-year-old. “It was a very emotional moment not only because I had contributed to such an important game, but also because my goal helped us progress to the next round.”
Shoev found the back of the net in the 67th minute when he picked up a through ball from Mekhrubon Odilzoda on the right, dashed forward and fired a shot from the edge of the six yard box that zoomed past keeper Abolfazl Khalilian.
His goal put Tajikistan ahead after Iran had drawn level at 1-1, and proved just the catalyst they needed to instill them with confidence when it looked like they were about to be overwhelmed.
“This goal was also a boost to my self esteem,” said the FC Istiklol player, who had been relatively quiet in Tajikistan’s first two matches against Oman and DPR Korea but was everywhere on the pitch in their final game.
“I want to be the best player here, and my first goal kept alive my hopes of achieving that dream.” said Shoev, who showed an aptitude for football when he started at the age of five.
“This was the best moment of my career because the team not only qualified for the knockout stage but also for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.”
Shoev joined the U17 team in September last year, and scored at the Qualifiers in their 33-0 defeat of Guam, which helped them finish unbeaten at the top of their group with 38 goals from three matches.
“It was a great start, and now I need to improve my dribbling skills and grow stronger until I reach the level of Lionel Messi, who I look up to because he does great things even though he’s small like me.”