Katanec has departed, bringing Uzbekistan closer to the World Cup.

A few days ago, it was announced that Katanec would not be joining the Uzbekistan national team, which has begun its training camp in Qatar. His assistants conducted the training sessions. This camp, primarily featuring players from local clubs, was organized so that Katanec could scout for new talent. A friendly match against Jordan is scheduled for January 27 in Doha, but it will take place under the guidance of a new head coach.

The New Old Coach — Kapadze

It was reasonable to assume that the head coach position for the national team would not remain vacant for long. With a friendly match against Jordan on the horizon, followed by crucial qualifying matches for the World Cup, the AFU announced Timur Kapadze as the new head coach of the national team. Other candidates were not even considered. Given that Kapadze was the first in history to lead Uzbekistan to the Olympics, his appointment seems to be a justified decision. Previously, Kapadze declined offers from "Pahktakor" and "Navbahor," possibly awaiting an invitation to the national team.

What Did Katanec Leave Behind?

Being the head coach of the Uzbekistan national football team is one of the most responsible positions here. No politician faces as much criticism as the coaches of the national team. Football journalism in Uzbekistan has always been highly democratic, and a person in this position must be prepared for any attacks. Katanec was not spared from criticism either. Fans accused him of boring play, while journalists pointed out his lack of decisiveness.

However, under Katanec, giants like Iran took to the field with trepidation. Previous coaches had not managed to create such tension in matches against the Iranians.

Katanec preferred a pragmatic style of play, prioritizing results above all. The Slovenian specialist was not fond of taking risks, and perhaps that is why Uzbekistan could not defeat Qatar in the Asian Cup.

Katanec led the Uzbekistan national team from August 12, 2021, to January 22, 2025. He became one of the longest-serving coaches in this position.

Under his leadership, the Uzbekistan national team played 42 matches, securing 26 victories. For the first time in history, the team defeated the UAE on home soil in Tashkent. It was during his tenure that stars like Abbos Faizullayev and Abduqodir Xusanov emerged, who are now shining in European football. Undoubtedly, Katanec played a significant role in their careers.

Personally, I believe that Srečko Katanec is one of the best coaches in the history of the Uzbekistan national team. Under his guidance, the team was closer than ever to qualifying for the World Cup. I have no doubt that our team will achieve this success, and when it happens, a significant part of the credit will belong to the composed Srečko Katanec. Thank you for your work, Mr. Katanec.

Prepared by: Utqir Jalolkhonov,
Operator and Editor: Fakhriddin Khatamov