Canavaro faces Uzbekistan exit after World Cup setback

Fabio Cannavaro could leave his role as Uzbekistan head coach after the country’s poor World Cup debut, according to reports in the Uzbek media.

The outlet Championat said the former Italy defender may step down soon, with another coach likely to take charge at the Asian Cup. Uzbekistan’s football federation has not announced a formal decision.

Local reporter Alexander Troitskiy said the chance of a new coach leading the team at the Asian Cup is high. The main reason under review is Uzbekistan’s disappointing tournament showing.

Uzbekistan lost all three group games, finished without a point and went out after conceding 11 goals. They lost 3-1 to Colombia, 5-0 to Portugal and 3-1 to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The results have sharpened criticism of Cannavaro and his staff. Federation officials are now assessing the campaign and deciding whether to continue with the Italian.

Cannavaro took over in October last year, replacing Timur Kapadze, on a contract described as a two-plus-three-year deal.