At a press conference today, Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed confidence and high expectations ahead of Vietnam’s final group stage match against Myanmar in the ASEAN Cup 2024. Vietnam tops Group B with seven points and needs only a draw to secure a place in the semifinals as group leaders. However, Coach Kim emphasized the team’s aim for victory.
“We are well-prepared and maintaining a positive mindset despite the players feeling some fatigue due to the packed schedule. Myanmar is facing similar challenges, and our goal is to achieve the best result,” Coach Kim stated.
The match may also mark the debut of naturalized striker Nguyen Xuan Son, who joined the squad on December 5. Xuan Son, a Brazilian-born forward born in 1997, has completed the waiting period to be eligible to play and is ready for action. Coach Kim expressed his excitement about Xuan Son’s potential impact on the team.
“Son is in excellent physical and mental condition. This is a new beginning for him and the national team. I hope he will make a significant difference on the field and deliver an impressive performance for the fans,” Coach Kim said.
The inclusion of Xuan Son adds depth to Vietnam’s attacking options. Coach Kim hopes that Son will combine well with Nguyen Tien Linh, a key figure in the team’s forward line. “Son brings additional quality to our attack, and I believe he will help the team achieve positive results,” he added.
Reflecting on the recent 1-1 draw with the Philippines, where he made eight changes to the starting lineup, Coach Kim acknowledged the team’s performance was not as effective as expected. However, he emphasized the necessity of squad rotation to preserve player fitness throughout the tournament.
Vietnam has a strong record against Myanmar, with eight wins, two draws, and only one loss. Securing the top spot in Group B would set up a semifinal clash with the runner-up from Group A, likely Malaysia or Singapore. However, Coach Kim downplayed the importance of their next opponent, stating, “Our goal is to reach the final, so the next opponent doesn’t matter. We will prepare thoroughly regardless of who we face.”
Vietnam will face Myanmar at 8 PM on December 21 at Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho.
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