Fabio Cannavaro said beating DR Congo on Saturday for a first World Cup win could leave a "wonderful" legacy for Uzbekistan at their first World Cup.
Defeats to Colombia and Portugal have already condemned Cannavaro's side to elimination, but the Italian great said he has been targeting the clash in Atlanta since the draw was made in December.
"Congo is a more winnable match for us because ever since the draw for the group was made, I've always maintained that against Colombia and Portugal we would have to suffer a great deal," said Cannavaro, who captained Italy to World Cup glory 20 years ago.
"When the draw was made for this group we were well aware that this could be our game against the DR Congo."
Victory would send DR Congo through as at least one of the best third-placed sides after they held Portugal 1-1 for an unlikely point in their opening game.
The Africans also impressed in losing narrowly 1-0 to Colombia, but Cannavaro, 52, remains confident Uzbekistan can cause an upset despite conceding eight goals in their opening two matches.
"Trying to win a match at the World Cup is wonderful. It would be incredibly rewarding for my footballers because they have worked a lot," added the former Juventus and Real Madrid defender.
"I have tried to lift them up many times. Trying to win the match tomorrow, first and foremost, I want to do this for my players. Then, I want us to grow as a team."
Uzbekistan's struggles have been part of a tough World Cup for Asian sides.
Of the nine teams to qualify from the Asian confederation only Japan and Australia have so far booked their place in the last 32 with Jordan, Iraq and Qatar also already eliminated.
"Where we need to improve is in Asian football, not only Uzbekistan. Other than Japan, Australia and maybe Iran, the rest of the teams: Jordan, Iraq, every team needs to improve," said Cannavaro.
"I'm here to help my players to improve, to try to maybe be at the next World Cup and to have the organisation ready to be in the World Cup.
"This takes time and it's really important for Uzbekistan football to not give up."
kca/pi
