Uzbekistan have stepped up preparations for the 2026 World Cup by announcing an extended 40-player squad for a three-week training camp in Tashkent.
The camp, which runs from 6 to 26 May, marks a key stage in Uzbekistan’s build-up to their first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup. Under the guidance of Fabio Cannavaro, the squad will train at the National Football Centre, combining intensive sessions with behind-closed-doors friendlies against domestic opposition.
Several of the country’s leading figures headline the squad, including captain Eldor Shomurodov, midfielder Otabek Shukurov, playmaker Abbosbek Fayzullaev and defender Abdukodir Khusanov.
The quartet will join up with the national team once their club commitments are completed in accordance with FIFA release regulations.
Cannavaro has also included several younger prospects as competition intensifies for places in the final 26-man squad, which must be submitted in early June. Among the new names attracting attention are forward Nodir Abdurazzakov and midfielder Sherzod Esanov, both hoping to force their way into the final selection.
The training camp will additionally allow the coaching staff to closely monitor players returning from injury, including Khusain Norchaev and Jaloliddin Masharipov.
Uzbekistan begin their World Cup campaign against Colombia in Mexico City on 17 June before facing Portugal in Houston six days later. Their group stage concludes with a meeting against DR Congo in Atlanta on 27 June.
