World Cup Legend Cannavaro Coaches Uzbekistan's First Team

A country that's never seen its flag fly at the World Cup is about to make history, guided by one of the greatest defenders ever to play the game.

Fabio Cannavaro, who lifted the trophy as Italy's captain in 2006, is now coaching Uzbekistan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It's the Central Asian nation's first time qualifying after years of near misses.

"I saw many players with great ambition," Cannavaro told Euronews in an exclusive interview. "They want to learn, improve, work hard and of course we have nothing to lose."

The challenge ahead is steep. Uzbekistan faces Portugal with Cristiano Ronaldo, Colombia with James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz, and DR Congo in their group. All three opponents rank among the world's elite teams.

But Cannavaro, nicknamed "The Berlin Wall" for his performances in 2006, believes the World Cup's unpredictability levels the playing field. "During the World Cup, you cannot say one is stronger than another because it's the World Cup," he explained.

The legendary defender won the Ballon d'Or in 2006, joining only Franz Beckenbauer and Matthias Sammer as defenders to claim football's highest individual honor. After managing clubs in China, Saudi Arabia and Europe, he took on the Uzbekistan challenge to help a new generation experience what he calls "a dream" and "a privilege."

Why This Inspires

Inside the squad, the energy is electric. Midfielder Otabek Shukurov says the team is focusing on joy over pressure, determined to show the world that Uzbekistan has strong football.

Young midfielder Umarali Rahmonaliyev says competition for spots has never been fiercer, with every player pushing to make the final roster. "We will give everything we have, raise our country's flag high, and show our potential on the world stage," he said.

For 36 million people watching from home, their team isn't just competing at the World Cup. They're proving that persistence pays off, that first times happen at any stage, and that every underdog story starts somewhere.

Cannavaro's message to his players captures the spirit perfectly: enjoy it, embrace it, and remember you have nothing to lose.