Djeparov scored the second goal – a great opportunist strike after a defensive error – after Odil Akhmedov opened the scoring early in the second half with a thunderous drive at Khalifa Stadium.

“We had studied our opponents; that was the main reason for our victory,” said Djeparov, the 2008 AFC Player of the Year.

“In the first game it is always difficult, so we’re pleased we got three points. There are still more matches to go and it is too early to say how we will do.

“But we came here to win the trophy. That is our dream.”

Uzbekistan’s next Group A match is against Kuwait on January 12 at Al Gharafa Stadium before they complete the round-robin stage against China on January 16 at the same venue.