Uzbekistan national team head coach Fabio Cannavaro shared his thoughts after the match against Venezuela (0:0, pen. 5:4) in the FIFA Series 2026 tournament. He assessed the game as good, noting that the team controlled the match flow and had opportunities to win in regular time but failed to score. Cannavaro stated: "To win two matches in a short period, you need strong spirit. Thanks to the guys, they played a good match and showed willpower."

The coach emphasized that the team started the game well, applied high pressure, and dominated in duels. In defense, he said the squad works excellently as a team, with defense not just about defenders but the connection between defense and midfield. Regarding set pieces, Cannavaro acknowledged limited time for practice but highlighted two players good at executing them: Otabek Shukurov and Aziz Ganiev.

On physical condition, Cannavaro mentioned progress is being made, with Super League players expected to improve their fitness by summer. He commented on injuries, calling them normal at the start of the season, and reported strengthening the medical staff for long-term high-level performance. About goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov, the coach clarified his start was planned in advance and unrelated to the penalty series, adding that two different goalkeepers were used in the two matches.

Cannavaro also addressed youth tracking, noting that scouting work is being conducted in collaboration with the Uzbekistan Football Association (UFA), though covering the entire republic is challenging. Speaking about the upcoming World Cup, he warned that things will be different with higher speed, but since his arrival at the national team, he has seen only progress.

To recall, the Uzbekistan national team played two matches at the FIFA Series 2026 in Tashkent, defeating Gabon (3:1) and Venezuela (0:0, pen. 5:4), and won the tournament. This victory showcases the team's development and preparation for future competitions.

Source: kun.uz