COACH CANNAVARO PLEASED WITH UZBEKISTAN'S PERFORMANCE DESPITE LOSS TO URUGUAY

MELAKA, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Uzbekistan head coach Fabio Cannavaro expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite their 2-1 defeat by South American giants Uruguay in an international friendly at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Krubong here last night.

Cannavaro, who captained Italy to the 2006 FIFA World Cup title, said his players showed strong character and tactical discipline against a talented side.

“My men played a very good game. Of course, it's important to score. We had a few chances earlier that we didn't convert... but I really appreciate the effort put in by my players.

“In possession, we tried to create chances to trouble Uruguay. It’s not easy because most of their players are playing in Brazil or in top leagues around the world. But I’m happy with my team, they’re young and have great potential to improve,” he told reporters at the post-match press conference last night.

Cannavaro added that they have about eight months to get their act right for the World Cup Finals, stressing that discipline on and off the field will be key to success.

“We can’t go to the World Cup unprepared because it will be tough. International matches like this are very important,” he said.

In last night's friendly, Uruguay, coached by Marcelo Bielsa, got their goals through Torres Peres in the 51st minute and Juan Manuel Sanabria in the 60th minute before world number 54 Uzbekistan got one back in the 82nd minute through Ruslanbek Jiyanov.

Uzbekistan have qualified for the FIFA World Cup Finals 2026 for the first time, and Cannavaro emphasised that every friendly they play over the coming months is crucial towards strengthening team chemistry and readiness.

-- BERNAMA