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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
Sport
Paul Myers

First contact: Uzbekistan's rise to the global stage

Uzbekistan World Cup Fabio Cannavaro RFI United States Asia Canada Mexico
Uzbekistan are appearing at the World Cup for the first time.
Uzbekistan are appearing at the World Cup for the first time. AFP - IGOR IVANKO

Uzbekistan will make its World Cup debut at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada. In the second instalment of a four-part series, RFI looks at the journey of the first team from central Asia to qualify for the competition in its 96-year history.

Fittingly for a team nicknamed "Asian Italy", a reference to their blue and white kit and defensive style of play, Uzbekistan will be coached at their first World Cup by former Italy defender Fabio Cannavaro.

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