Vietnam will face Singapore in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 semi-final at 8:00 PM on December 29 at Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho Province. In the first leg, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s side secured a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Tien Linh and Xuan Son.
To advance to the final, Singapore must beat Vietnam by a two-goal margin to force extra time or win by three or more goals outright.
When asked about Singapore’s chances of pulling off an upset, Coach Tsutomu Ogura confidently responded, “I can’t say what percentage chance Singapore has to surprise Vietnam. But let me ask you—what percentage chance do you think your national team has to surprise us?”
Ogura acknowledged the challenges posed by the demanding tournament schedule. “We’ve only had two days to prepare after the first leg against Vietnam. Singapore trained yesterday morning before traveling to Vietnam in the afternoon. Today, we had our official training session. I hope the team will play well against the hosts,” he stated.
Singapore has played in Vietnam before during the group stage, when they faced Timor Leste at Hang Day Stadium. However, this time, they face a different level of intensity at the packed and passionate Viet Tri Stadium.
Ogura emphasized that Singapore is in Vietnam to fight for a place in the final, not for leisure. “I don’t focus on age when selecting players. Experienced players bring valuable lessons to the younger ones. Singapore didn’t come here for sightseeing. We are here to compete. Our senior players will guide and inspire the younger ones, and everyone is eager to show their abilities in this match,” he declared.
Reflecting on Vietnam’s performance, Ogura remarked, “Xuan Son had only a few clear chances in the first leg. I don’t focus on individual players because the entire Vietnamese team is strong. We’ve prepared to counter their team as a whole, not just one player. Facing Vietnam is challenging, but we’re ready.”
Ogura also praised Vietnam’s football development. “Even in Japan, I followed Vietnamese football. It’s not just the national team; their youth teams are improving as well, thanks to fan support. This passion is crucial for football in Vietnam and Southeast Asia as a whole. I hope Singapore’s fans will show similar enthusiasm.”
Despite the first-leg loss, Ogura remained optimistic. “Vietnam scored their goals in added time during the first leg. Let’s not forget that a match lasts 90 minutes plus injury time. We need to stay focused throughout. Singapore still has a chance, and we’re here to seize it,” he concluded.
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