Although disappointed with the result, Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed satisfaction with the effort and determination shown by the Vietnamese players in their 1-3 defeat against Iraq in the final match of the second round of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers in the Asian region.
“Despite the loss, the players played with a winning spirit,” Coach Kim said in the post-match press conference. “I really want to commend them for that attitude.”
Before the match at Basra International Stadium, Vietnam was aware that they had been eliminated due to Indonesia’s 2-0 victory over the Philippines in an earlier game. Despite aiming for a win, Tien Linh and his teammates struggled against a higher-ranked Iraqi team.
Coach Kim Sang-sik’s squad conceded three goals in the 12th, 71st, and second minute of injury time, all from long-range shots. Pham Tuan Hai scored Vietnam’s only goal in the 85th minute, also from a long-range shot that capitalized on a mistake by the opposing goalkeeper.
The South Korean coach admitted his disappointment with the unsatisfactory result in this continental competition. “There are still details that need improvement,” he acknowledged. “But the players tried their best and gave their all on the pitch.”
Coach Kim recognized the players’ efforts after a long journey to Iraq and their adaptation to various challenges, including the hot weather. Despite knowing their elimination, the players remained focused and did not treat the match against Iraq as a mere formality.
Vietnam concluded the second round of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers in the Asian region in third place with six points from two wins against the Philippines. The team lost all matches against Iraq and Indonesia, missing out on advancing to the third round and securing a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup.
Vietnam will continue to compete in the final qualifying round for the 2027 Asian Cup, aiming to secure one of the six remaining tickets to Saudi Arabia.
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