Odil Ahmedov opened the scoring two minutes from the hour mark upon releasing a long-range shot.

Server Djeparov doubled Uzbekistan's lead in the 77th minute with an effort from the edge of the area.

Zamalek midfielder Hussein Yasser was included in Qatar's starting line-up but was taken off on 61 minutes after failing to make a substantial impact.

Qatar are now the only team to have lost two Asian Cup openers at home.

Their first home opening defeat was in 1988, when they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat by Iran.

Uzbekistan are now on top of Group A with three points.

Gulf champions Kuwait will lock horns with China in the same group on Saturday.