Uzbekistan national team head coach Fabio Cannavaro spoke in detail at a press conference about the team's preparation, physical condition, squad selection, and plans ahead of the World Cup. The Italian specialist indicated that the national team is undergoing serious and systematic preparation for this historic tournament.
Cannavaro first addressed the players' physical condition. He noted that because the domestic league's tempo does not fully match World Cup standards, the competition was temporarily paused in agreement with the league, and the team has entered a specialized physical training phase.
“Because the national league's tempo is not high, we agreed with the league to pause the competition and began working specifically on physical conditioning. We saw some players struggling in training. But the good side is that no one is complaining, and each is striving to prove themselves,” said Cannavaro.
The specialist also commented on the inclusion of players with limited match practice. He stated that these decisions were made in consultation with the coaching staff and experts. Cannavaro noted that he has been monitoring players like Husayn Norchaev and Abbosbek Fayzullayev, and even though their current match practice is low, they could benefit the team at the World Cup.
The Italian coach also clarified his previous statement about needing “warrior players.” According to him, opponents at the World Cup will be very strong, so players must enter the pitch fearless, mentally resilient, and physically prepared.
“I want my players to be invincible and fearless. That is why I said they must be ‘as strong as horses.’ Because our opponents are not simple. The matches against Colombia, Portugal, and DR Congo will not be easy,” the specialist said.
Cannavaro also shared realistic thoughts on the results expected by fans. He emphasized that the public expects great results, with some even dreaming of the title. However, the coach said that players should not be burdened with excessive pressure.
“They are expecting great results from us, some even expect us to win the title. But this is our first World Cup. Therefore, we should not put excessive pressure on the players. The most important thing is to enjoy this tournament. I believe the players will give their all for our people and the honor of the Motherland,” Cannavaro emphasized.
The coach also announced that serious work is being done on set-pieces. In modern football, corner kicks, free kicks, and other set-pieces can decide the fate of a match. Cannavaro stated that 15–20 goals per season can be scored from set-pieces, and significant attention is being paid to this area.
The selection of opponents for friendly matches was not accidental. Cannavaro said that Canada and the Netherlands were chosen in consultation with the coaching staff and UFA representatives. Canada offers an environment that needs to be studied as a World Cup host, while the Netherlands resembles Portugal in terms of playing style and physical preparation.
This allows the Uzbekistan national team to prepare better against group stage opponents. Cannavaro noted that there were other options, but the coaching staff considered these two opponents the most suitable.
Overall, one can conclude from Cannavaro's comments that the team's preparation is proceeding seriously. Physical condition, set-pieces, opponent analysis, and mental preparation are all being carried out based on a specific plan.
This is the first World Cup for Uzbekistan. Therefore, the path will not be easy. But as Cannavaro said, the main thing is not to be afraid, to give everything on the pitch, and to defend the honor of our people worthily. The World Cup is a big stage. Now our players are preparing to make their mark on that stage.
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