Even if Katanec is not with us, we will try to meet his demands - Masharipov

Jaloliddin Masharipov, a member of Uzbekistan's national football team and Iran's "Istiklal" club, shared his thoughts ahead of the third stage of the World Cup qualifiers.

"No matter who we play against, we will aim for the desired result. The Iranian national team is never weak, but they have grown to respect Uzbekistan," said Masharipov.

He also addressed the absence of national team coach Srečko Katanec, who will be unable to guide the team in the upcoming matches due to health issues.

"This is not the first time we've faced such a situation with the coach. Sometimes, Katanec experiences health problems. We've been working with him for three years, so we understand what he expects from us. Even in his absence, we will strive to meet his demands. Katanec’s playing style is deeply ingrained in us, so I’m against the idea of bringing in another coach. Now, we can confidently face opponents who we hadn't previously beaten," Masharipov explained.

For context, Uzbekistan’s national team will play two consecutive matches in Tashkent as part of the third stage of the World Cup qualifiers. The "White Wolves" will face Iran on October 10 and the UAE on October 15.

It was previously reported that Katanec would be unable to assist the national team in the upcoming matches due to his health condition.