On the evening of June 10th (local time), the Vietnam national team had their final training session at Basra International Stadium, completing their preparations for the upcoming match against hosts Iraq.
Although the Vietnam team no longer holds the advantage of determining their own fate in the quest for a spot in the third round of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, coach Kim Sang Sik and his players are approaching the match with the highest level of focus and determination.
Basra International Stadium, the venue for the clash between Iraq and Vietnam, is known as a “cauldron” of Iraqi football, with a capacity of 65,000 spectators. The demand for tickets has created a frenzy in Basra, promising packed stands filled with home fans.
The Vietnam national team is aware of the formidable challenge they face, not only from a technically strong Iraqi team but also from the intense atmosphere created by the home supporters. Despite these challenges, the team is committed to giving their best performance on the field.
Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and unity among the players. He encouraged them to manage their recovery well and be in the best possible condition for the match. The coach also acknowledged the strengths of the Iraqi team, particularly highlighting the threat posed by their forward Ayman Hussein.
Team captain Do Hung Dung expressed the team’s resolve to adapt to the harsh conditions and the pressure from the crowd. He noted, “Playing in front of a large audience can be challenging, but it can also be motivating. We have experienced many big matches, and we are prepared to give our best and stay united.”
Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai, known for his knack for scoring crucial goals against West Asian teams, remains confident. He stated, “I have always believed in my abilities and will give 100% if given the opportunity. The whole team is determined to play a good match and achieve the best result for our supporters.”
With the final training session complete, the Vietnam national team is now set for their decisive match against Iraq, which will kick off at 1:00 AM (Vietnam time) on June 12th. The team’s performance in this match will be crucial, not only for their current World Cup qualifying campaign but also for restoring confidence and setting the tone for future international competitions.
The Vietnamese fans and football experts are eager to see how the team will perform under the new management of coach Kim Sang Sik, hoping for a display of tactical flexibility and resilience that will mark a positive shift from the previous era.
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