Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Uzbekistan booked a spot in the FIFA U17 World Cup Indonesia 2023 Round of 16 after fighting back from two goals down to hold Spain 2-2 on Thursday.

Spain secured top spot in Group B despite allowing a two-goal lead to slip away in their 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan in Surakarta. 

The result means the Uzbeks are also through to the last 16 as they are guaranteed to be one of the four best third-placed teams.

Igor Venancio Oyono Oyana opened the scoring for Spain in the 10th minute with Roberto Martin Uruel adding their second nine minutes later.

 Behruz Shukurllaev sparked Uzbekistan’s fightback with his goal in first half added time with Amirbek Saidov ensuring the Central Asian side advanced with his effort in the 53rd minute. 

Spain finished on seven points with Mali, who beat Canada 5-1, one adrift in second place with Uzbekistan third on four points.

Friday’s action will see Islamic Republic of Iran playing New Caledonia in Group C while Japan meet Group D leaders Senegal, with both Asian sides needing wins to confirm their Round of 16 spots.