Kechinov rates Uzbekistan's chances at the World Cup highly
Valeriy Kechinov, a former Pakhtakor youth product who left his mark on Russian football, shared his thoughts on the Uzbekistan national team's prospects at the 2026 World Cup. He emphasized that the current squad is capable of fighting for a spot in the playoffs.
Kechinov believes Uzbekistan will not just be a participant at the World Cup. The team features players who have gained experience in European clubs, handled the pressure of big matches, and are capable of competing at a high level. Therefore, opponents, even renowned national teams, will have to prepare seriously for matches against Uzbekistan.
"Can Uzbekistan reach the World Cup playoffs? Absolutely, they can; the team now has strong performers. Eldor Shomurodov and Abduqodir Husanov have significant experience playing for top European clubs. Even the Portugal national team will have to work hard to defeat Uzbekistan," said Valeriy Kechinov.
These sentiments could serve as a vital psychological boost for Uzbek football, as the national team will participate in the final stage of the World Cup for the first time in its history. In such a tournament, experience, discipline, and psychological stability are of paramount importance.
The team led by Fabio Cannavaro secured a historic qualification and now has the opportunity to showcase itself on the world stage. This tournament will also be a major test for the Italian specialist. He knows the spirit of the World Cup well and must now instill that experience into the Uzbekistan national team.
Our team will face Colombia, Portugal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the group stage. This is not an easy group. Portugal features one of the greatest stars in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo. Colombia is physically and technically strong, while DR Congo is considered a dangerous opponent with athletic and fast players.
At the same time, Uzbekistan has enough players to make opponents think twice. Eldor Shomurodov provides experience and leadership in attack. Abduqodir Husanov has become a key figure for the team due to his reliable play in the center of defense, his speed, and the experience he gained in Europe.
Kechinov's words about Portugal are not coincidental. In modern football, it is not names, but discipline, fighting spirit, and tactical preparation on the pitch that are decisive. If Uzbekistan stays true to its game plan, minimizes errors, and capitalizes on opportunities, it can cause problems for any opponent.
Debutants at the World Cup are often remembered for unexpected results. For Uzbekistan, the main task is to show confidence from the very first match, not give away easy points to opponents, and fight for the playoffs until the end.
In short, Valeriy Kechinov rated Uzbekistan's chances at the World Cup highly. In his opinion, Fabio Cannavaro's team is capable of reaching the playoffs, and even Portugal will have to sweat to beat Uzbekistan. Now it comes down to one thing: showing character on the pitch. At the World Cup, respect is earned through play, not rankings.
