In a lengthy interview with the official FIFA website, the head coach of the Uzbekistan U-17 national team, Islam Ismailov, spoke in detail about the spirit of the youth team, the preparation process, and future plans. In it, the coach expressed sincere thoughts about the changes after the team's victory at the Asian Championship, the preparation process for the World Cup, the analysis of opponents, and the psychological state of the players, according to fifa.com.
According to Ismailov, the Asian Championship brought not only pride, but also great responsibility. "This victory has taken our team to a new level. Every footballer has developed confidence, and now we are working twice as hard. "Our main task at the World Cup is to prove ourselves on the world stage and write a new history for Uzbek football," the coach said.
He emphasized that many lessons were learned from the tournament, where the national team reached the quarter-finals at the 2023 World Cup. "We interviewed the team's coach at the time and analyzed every game. The most important conclusion was the need to make the right decisions even under pressure. Therefore, this time in preparation, we paid special attention to the speed of decision-making and game control," Ismailov said.
According to the coach, the main difference between Asian and world-class games is in the tempo of the game and the speed of thinking. "Teams from Europe or South America will intensify counter-pressure, which will require players to think very quickly. This is exactly what we prepared for in training - to make quick decisions, assess the situation, and keep the game under control. Now we are not just an adaptive team, but a team that manages the game," he said.
Ismailov also touched upon the preparation process. According to it, the Football Association of Uzbekistan has developed a special plan for the national team, and a number of international friendly matches have been organized. "We analyzed the tactics, strengths, and weaknesses of our opponents - Paraguay, Ireland, and Panama. We have prepared a separate strategic plan for each opponent," the coach emphasized.
Speaking about the psychological state and physical fitness of young football players, Ismailov noted that overcoming pressure is the biggest challenge for athletes of this age. "We conduct psychological classes with them every day, organize group conversations. Not being afraid of pressure and playing confidently is the main task of today. At the same time, modern programs have been developed to maintain a high level of physical fitness. "Every player must be able to fully demonstrate their potential on the field," he said.
At the end of the interview, Islam Ismailov addressed Uzbekistan's fans and young players. "People's trust played a big role in our becoming Asian champions. Now, at the World Cup, we will fight only for victory, feeling the same confidence. And to the youth, I say: an opportunity is given - value it. Talent shows the way, but hard work leads to the goal," the coach concluded.
Ismailov's words inspired new hope in many fans. The young national team will now fight not only for results, but also to raise the flag of Uzbekistan high on the world stage.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
