In preparation for the 2024 ASEAN Cup, the Vietnam national football team is gearing up with two high-profile friendlies against formidable opponents: Russia and Thailand. Coach Kim Sang Sik and his squad have been working tirelessly, conducting intensive training sessions even during the National Day holiday to ensure they are well-prepared for these upcoming challenges.
Facing such tough competition, especially from a team like Russia, which is ranked 33rd in the world and has a history of World Cup appearances, Vietnam is bracing for a challenging encounter. To meet these demands, Hoang Duc revealed that the coaching staff has implemented a rigorous training schedule. The focus has been on high-intensity workouts to enhance the players’ stamina and resilience, which will be crucial against physically and technically strong teams like Russia.
“We have been rotating the squad and trying out different tactical formations,” Hoang Duc shared. “The coaching staff has been working on multiple attacking and defensive strategies. I believe fans will see a new and improved Vietnam team in the upcoming match against Russia. We are preparing to show our best performance.”
These friendlies are not just about preparation for the ASEAN Cup; they also serve as a morale booster for the players and an opportunity to gauge their readiness against top-tier international competition. The match against Russia, in particular, holds significant symbolic importance, given Russia’s status in global football. “This game against Russia is more than just a friendly. It’s a chance for us to prove ourselves on a larger stage and to give our fans something to cheer about,” Hoang Duc emphasized. “We are determined to make them proud.”
In addition to team goals, Hoang Duc has set personal objectives for the match against Russia. “We need to be clinical in front of goal and capitalize on every scoring opportunity. As for myself, I will strive to score against Russia if I get the chance to play. It would be a personal achievement and a contribution to the team’s success,” he added.
The match against Russia is not just a test of skill but also a chance for the Vietnam team to improve their FIFA ranking. Playing against a higher-ranked team can offer valuable experience and exposure, helping the team refine their tactics and strategies. A good performance could elevate Vietnam’s standing in Asian football and boost their confidence ahead of the 2024 ASEAN Cup.
Beyond the field, these matches also serve as a platform for individual players to showcase their talents. Scouts and clubs will be watching, and outstanding performances could open doors to opportunities in more competitive leagues. Hoang Duc, known for his versatility and vision on the field, could attract attention with a strong showing, potentially leading to further advancements in his career.
The upcoming match against Russia, scheduled for 8:00 PM on September 5 at the My Dinh National Stadium, is highly anticipated. Following that, Vietnam will face Thailand, another regional powerhouse, on September 10. These matches will provide a clear indication of where the Vietnam team stands and what areas need improvement before the ASEAN Cup. The Vietnam national team’s fans eagerly await these encounters, hoping to see their team perform well against some of the best football nations.
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