Vietnam national team begins training in Basra amid harsh conditions

On the evening of June 8, local time, the Vietnam national football team commenced their first training session in Basra, Iraq, as they prepare for their crucial match against the host nation. Under the guidance of Coach Kim Sang-sik, the team is determined to overcome the challenges of playing away from home and aims to secure a victory.

However, this task is far from easy. In addition to facing an opponent of higher caliber and enjoying the home advantage, the Vietnamese team must also quickly adjust to the time difference and the extreme summer weather conditions in Iraq. Daytime temperatures in Basra can soar to an overwhelming 47-48 degrees Celsius. Even during their training session at 8 PM, the temperature remained above 40 degrees Celsius, making the environment uncomfortably hot.

Despite these challenges, the team maintained high spirits and optimism as they worked through their training session. The players and coaching staff are focused on their objective and are determined to achieve the best possible outcome in their upcoming match against Iraq.

This match is crucial for Vietnam’s hopes of advancing in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Currently, the team is positioned third in their group with six points, trailing Indonesia by one point. To keep their qualification hopes alive, Vietnam must secure a positive result against Iraq, while also relying on a favorable outcome in the match between Indonesia and the Philippines.

The team’s preparation in Basra involves not only tactical and technical drills but also strategies to cope with the severe weather and time difference. The dedication shown by Coach Kim Sang-sik and his players reflects their commitment to making the most of this challenging situation and striving for success.

The Vietnamese squad’s perseverance and resilience will be tested to the limit in this critical match. Their ability to adapt to the harsh conditions and execute their game plan will be key factors in determining their performance and potential victory against a formidable Iraqi side. The team remains hopeful and motivated, carrying the aspirations of their fans as they approach this decisive encounter.