After a 1-1 draw against the Philippines at Rizal Memorial Stadium on December 18, the Vietnam national team is bracing for a challenging schedule as they approach the final stages of the AFF Cup 2024 group phase and potential knockout rounds.
The team will depart Manila for Hanoi on the evening of December 19, arriving at Noi Bai International Airport at approximately 1:40 AM on December 20. From there, they will immediately travel to Phu Tho to prepare for their final Group B match against Myanmar, set to kick off at 8:00 PM on December 21 at Viet Tri Stadium.
This tight turnaround leaves the team with only three days to recover and prepare, including travel time. Should Vietnam secure the top spot in Group B — a likely outcome — they will face the runner-up from Group A in the semifinals on December 26 and December 29. The packed schedule underscores the physical demands on the players, who must stay resilient to maintain their performance.
The condensed timeline has prompted head coach Kim Sang Sik to rotate his lineup extensively throughout the tournament. While this approach has helped preserve the players’ fitness, it has also contributed to inconsistent performances. Despite moments of brilliance, Vietnam has yet to deliver dominant displays in the AFF Cup 2024.
Coach Kim’s squad rotation was evident in the draw against the Philippines, where several key players were rested. The result kept Vietnam at the top of Group B with seven points, needing only a draw against Myanmar to guarantee a place in the semifinals as group winners.
The rigorous schedule highlights the importance of balancing player fitness with tactical cohesion. Coach Kim has remained optimistic that his strategies will yield better results in the knockout stages, where the stakes are higher, and the opposition is tougher.
As the tournament progresses, the team’s ability to manage fatigue and deliver under pressure will be critical. With the semifinals just days after the group stage concludes, Vietnam will need to peak at the right time to reclaim the regional crown and restore their dominance in Southeast Asian football. Fans will hope that the meticulous planning and squad depth will pay dividends in the crucial matches ahead.
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