Uzbekistan national football team head coach Fabio Cannavaro has announced a 30-man extended squad for the upcoming World Cup in the United States. FIFA regulations allow only 26 players in the final roster, but the coaching staff decided to bring extra players to cover for potential injuries and emergencies.
The squad announcement ignited a heated debate on social media, with fans and experts expressing everything from full approval to open criticism. The most controversial pick was Jaloliddin Masharipov, who recently recovered from an injury. Cannavaro defended his decision, emphasizing Masharipov's importance in maintaining a positive atmosphere in the dressing room. The appointment of a foreign coach is seen as a way to make decisions without pressure from local influential figures.
The goalkeeper line is considered the most stable: Utkir Yusupov, Abduvohid Nematov, and Botirali Ergashev. Yusupov was the hero of the decisive match against the UAE that secured the World Cup berth, while Nematov is known for his composure in penalty shootouts.
In defense, the main hope is Manchester City center-back Abdukodir Khusanov, who has no adequate replacement. His fitness is crucial for the team's success. Khusniddin Alikulov is out due to injury, so Rustamjon Ashurmatov and Umarbek Eshmurodov will support Khusanov.
The midfield is considered the strongest line: Otabek Shukurov, Odiljon Hamrobekov, Azizjon Ganiyev, Oston Urunov, and Abbosbek Fayzullaev are capable of deciding matches individually. However, their consistent high-level performance is rare. The team needs stability rather than individual flashes of brilliance at the World Cup.
In attack, Eldor Shomurodov is the leader. He moved from Roma to Istanbul Basaksehir and became the top scorer in the Turkish league. Igor Sergeyev is likely to come off the bench. Ruslanbek Jiyanov and Sherzod Temirov are listed as reserves.
Full squad: Goalkeepers: Utkir Yusupov, Botirali Ergashev, Abduvohid Nematov. Defenders: Rustamjon Ashurmatov, Umarbek Eshmurodov, Avazbek Ulmasaliyev, Abdukodir Khusanov, Abdulla Abdullayev, Jahongir Orozov, Hojiakbar Alijonov, Behruz Karimov, Ruslanbek Jiyanov, Farrukh Sayfiyev, Sherzod Nasrullayev, Umarali Rahmonaliyev. Midfielders: Azizjon Ganiyev, Akmal Mozgovoy, Sherzod Esanov, Otabek Shukurov, Odiljon Hamrobekov, Dostonbek Khamdamov, Jamshid Iskanderov, Jasur Jaloliddinov. Forwards: Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Oston Urunov, Jaloliddin Masharipov, Azizbek Omonov, Eldor Shomurodov, Igor Sergeyev, Sherzod Temirov.
Source: www.gazeta.uz