Uzbekistan head coach Fabio Cannavaro described the FIFA World Cup as «brutal» after his side’s historic debut ended with a 3-1 defeat to DR Congo, bringing the White Wolves’ tournament to a close.
The 2006 World Cup-winning captain with Italy defended his players despite Uzbekistan finishing Group K with three defeats. Cannavaro said the squad had given everything and stressed that no one was more disappointed than the players themselves.
«I will never complain about my players,» the Italian coach said after the match. «They suffer more than anyone in Uzbekistan.»
Cannavaro also urged continued investment in youth development and football academies, arguing that long-term planning is essential if Uzbekistan is to return to future World Cups.
Although the White Wolves exited in the group stage, their qualification for the expanded 2026 World Cup remains a landmark achievement. Uzbekistan became the first Central Asian nation to compete at football’s biggest tournament, giving players valuable experience and laying the foundation for future success.
