Fabio Cannavaro's Uzbekistan exit underscores African surge at World Cup 2026

Former World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro saw his tenure as Uzbekistan coach end after a 1-1 draw with the Congo and a defeat to Portugal, leaving the team eliminated in the group stage. Cannavaro said the side “gave everything” and praised the experience despite a “difficult group”. Former Italy national team doctor Enrico Castellacci, who worked closely with Cannavaro, highlighted the tactical identity Cannavaro gave the Uzbek team, stating, “Ha dato alla Nazionale uzbeka un’identità tattica, un gioco identificabile, un'organizzazione precisa.”

Castellacci also noted the overall strength of African nations at the tournament, pointing out that ten African teams remained in the competition, losing only Tunisia. He cited the Democratic Republic of Congo’s performance – a draw against Portugal and a narrow loss to Colombia before beating Uzbekistan – as evidence of the continent’s progress, adding, “Hanno fisico e tecnica. Se aggiungono la tattica perfetta, non è un’eresia dire che potranno presto vincere il Mondiale.”

With Cannavaro’s exit, Carlo Ancelotti becomes the sole Italian coach remaining at the World Cup, leading Brazil into the round of 16 against Japan. Ancelotti’s staff, featuring assistant Francesco Mauri, expressed confidence in Brazil’s form, especially the striking play of Vinícius Júnior.