Legendary defender Fabio Cannavaro, who is leading Uzbekistan into their first-ever World Cup, has addressed claims of mistreatment and intense security screenings. The former Ballon d'Or winner insists that the use of sniffer dogs and tarmac searches is standard procedure and necessary for the safety and security of the team.
Cannavaro was caught up in an unexpected security check after arriving in the United States with the Uzbekistan national team. Footage circulating online shows the former Ballon d'Or winner having his belongings searched as part of extensive screening procedures ahead of Uzbekistan's friendly against the Netherlands. The Netherlands narrowly escaped a major setback in their final pre-World Cup friendly, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Manhattan. A late stoppage-time penalty from Liverpool winger Cody Gakpo spared the blushes for Ronald Koeman's side, though the hard-fought triumph was heavily overshadowed by significant squad injury concerns.
Nations must submit their final player lists by June 1 for the 2026 World Cup, with strict rules in place regarding injuries, replacements, and goalkeeper selections. FIFA has also announced a significant protocol modification that will see every squad member take part in the pre-match national anthems at the upcoming World Cup, moving away from traditional sporting custom.
Canada face Uzbekistan and Republic of Ireland in their final pre-World Cup friendlies, with Jesse Marsch managing injury concerns after Marcelo Flores’ heartbreaking setback and searching for goals from Jonathan David and Cyle Larin. The World Cup 2026 draw has been made, with England set to face Croatia in the group stages, and the USMNT to take on Australia. Brazil have been drawn with Morocco, while France will play Senegal and Argentina must face Austria.
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso revealed the details of his phone call with former World Cup-winning team-mate Fabio Cannavaro, who was appointed as the new head coach of the Uzbekistan national team earlier this week. The former midfielder had a cheeky dig at the Ballon d'Or winner for taking over a side that has already qualified for the World Cup while the Azzurri are 'stuck in the trenches' in the battle to secure a place.
