Uzbekistan and Iran played out a goalless draw in an International Friendly on 18 November, with both sides' attacking ambitions ultimately frustrated by resolute defending and goalkeeping. Iran dominated possession at 56% and created the more threatening opportunities, registering 10 shots and an expected goals figure of 0.78, though only two efforts found the target. Uzbekistan, set up in a compact 5-4-1 formation, absorbed pressure effectively and limited their own chances to six shots with an xG of 0.46; their goalkeeper made a crucial save to maintain parity, converting one of two on-target attempts faced into a clean sheet. Iran's number one also proved equal to the task, saving the one shot on target he faced and posting a 100% save percentage. The stalemate reflected a tactical battle between Iran's fluid 4-2-3-1 approach and Uzbekistan's defensive solidity, leaving both teams with a point apiece. Neither side will view the result as satisfactory given their respective ambitions.