Cannavaro: Uzbek People Are Natural Fighters

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Italian football legend Fabio Cannavaro shared his impressions of working with the Uzbekistan national team in an interview with The Mirror, ahead of the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. According to Cannavaro, the Uzbek people are natural fighters, a trait that shines through in sports.

“I always tell my players: this is your first World Cup, you have nothing to lose. Approach each match calmly, enjoy the game, and if you feel nervous, let it be a positive kind of anxiety,” Cannavaro said.

The Italian coach highlighted the country’s strong sporting passion. “Countries are especially strong in combat sports like boxing. Uzbekistan frequently ranks at the top worldwide. This shows that Uzbek people are natural fighters—they never give up. By character, they, or rather we, don’t back down from anyone,” he noted.

Cannavaro also emphasized the progress in football infrastructure and the strategy for developing the national game. “The team has just secured its first World Cup participation, which makes the whole country proud. I saw a new sports center—modern, beautiful, and well-equipped. The Federation invests actively in academies, ideas, and financial resources, which is impressive. I was particularly inspired by the enthusiasm and the drive to improve,” he said.

He added that the players’ technical preparation is at a high level, with training focused on refining tactical aspects of the game. “The Federation frequently consults with me and asks for guidance on developing football across the country, and this makes me especially proud,” Cannavaro concluded.

The Italian coach noted that his experience working across Asia and the Middle East has broadened his perspective, preparing him to lead Uzbekistan in the World Cup.

In Group stage of FIFA World Cup 2026, Uzbekistan will face Colombia, Portugal, and the winner of the play-off.