The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Omonulla Fayziev, addressed the rigorous security screening of the country’s national football team players and coaching staff before a friendly match against the Netherlands in New York.
"Regarding the situation involving our footballers, we have established contact with the relevant US authorities through our country's Consulate General in New York and have requested an official explanation," he said.
"While we understand that security measures are applied in accordance with domestic regulations of each country, we believe it is essential that such procedures do not undermine the spirit of sporting events, particularly mutual respect and friendly relations," the spokesperson Fayziev emphasized.
The head coach Fabio Cannavaro later stated that the screening was a standard security procedure. According to him, there was "no scandal at all" and "no indignity or disrespectful treatment" involved.
Before the match on June 8, security personnel inspected members of the Uzbekistan national team using hand-held metal detectors. They were also asked to place their bags and equipment on the ground next to the bus. A K9 unit with a dog and security officials were also present.
The team’s coach, Fabio Cannavaro, expressed surprise at the level of screening. The Uzbekistan Football Association said that the inspection was related to security matters and that other teams underwent it as well, though they admitted the delegation did not expect such a strict procedure.
Teams from other countries, including Senegal and Belgium, faced similar checks, though theirs were conducted at the airport.
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