Vietnam’s spirit high ahead of Philippines clash, says Do Hung Dung

Vietnam national team midfielder Do Hung Dung expressed confidence in the team’s morale and preparation ahead of their crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier against the Philippines. Speaking at a press conference on June 5th, the day before the match, Do emphasized the team’s determination and readiness despite the tight schedule and recent challenges.

“After 4-5 days of training, the players’ spirits are very high. Even though the time is short and the schedule is packed, we empathize with the head coach. We will enter the match with the highest spirit. The Vietnam national team is in the best state to face the Philippines,” Do Hung Dung shared.

This period marks the first training camp and tactical drills under the new head coach Kim Sang-sik. The Korean coach has focused on recovery sessions to help players regain their form after a grueling V-League schedule, before integrating tactical exercises and conveying his football philosophy.

Addressing the recent difficulties faced by the national team, Do acknowledged that during the transition of playing styles, setbacks are inevitable. However, he emphasized the importance of fan support and patience.

“Regarding Coach Kim’s tactics and style, they might not be too different. Coaches often follow global tactical trends. In recent times, many coaches have similar tactical approaches. Vietnamese football is no exception; our coaches will follow these philosophies to close the gap with world football. It requires time, but it is the best way to integrate. Even if there are failures or stumbles, to progress and develop, we must change and cannot stick to old ways. I hope the fans understand that the Vietnam national team will strive to meet expectations,” Do explained.

Do Hung Dung, entrusted with the captain’s armband by Kim Sang-sik, has played under three national team coaches, including Toshiya Miura (with the U23 team), Park Hang-seo, Philippe Troussier, and now Kim Sang-sik. The Hanoi FC midfielder understands the challenges coaches face in imparting their playing styles and acknowledges that the brief training period might not suffice to meet all of Kim’s demands.

“We are eager to win and will try to improve our play. However, with just 3-4 days of training, it’s challenging to perfectly meet the head coach’s requirements. But we have interacted and communicated with Coach Kim. I hope we can fulfill his expectations in the match against the Philippines,” Do Hung Dung emphasized.

Vietnam currently sits third in Group F with three points from four matches in the second round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. While their chances of advancing to the third round are slim, with a four-point gap to second-placed Indonesia, the team remains determined to fight for victories in their remaining matches against the Philippines and Iraq. The upcoming match at My Dinh Stadium will also serve as Coach Kim Sang-sik’s debut, and the team aims to make a strong impression under his leadership.

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