Vietnam faced significant challenges in their ASEAN Cup 2024 group stage match against the Philippines on December 18. A crucial last-minute goal by Doan Ngoc Tan in the seventh minute of added time secured a 1-1 draw for Vietnam, keeping them in control of their semifinal ambitions.
Speaking after the match, head coach Kim Sang Sik shared his thoughts on the hard-fought game. “This match was truly difficult. We struggled to score and create opportunities and ended up conceding a goal. However, the late equalizer was vital and keeps us on track toward the semifinals, as per our initial plan,” Kim stated.
The coach also addressed his decision to rotate the squad, which saw several changes to the starting lineup. “Rotating players undoubtedly has some impact on performance, but overall, it didn’t negatively affect us too much. The players carried out their responsibilities well until the final whistle,” he added.
Reflecting on the match, Kim expressed disappointment over a first-half penalty decision that was overturned by VAR. “I feel we should have been awarded a penalty in the first half, but it was not given. Regardless, the team fought until the very end and was rewarded for their efforts,” he noted.
The draw leaves Vietnam atop Group B with seven points after three matches, needing only a single point in their final group-stage game to secure first place and advance to the semifinals.
Vietnam’s final group-stage match will be against Myanmar on December 21. A positive result in this encounter will ensure Vietnam proceeds as group leaders, likely avoiding a tougher semifinal opponent.
Leave a Reply