In the pre-match press conference for the Asean Cup 2024 final second leg, Vietnam’s head coach Kim Sang-sik urged his players to put the joy of their first-leg victory behind them and focus on what he expects to be a tough battle against Thailand at Rajamangala Stadium.
“We must play on their home ground, and Thailand, needing a win, will be strong, aggressive, and apply a lot of pressure,” Coach Kim remarked. “But we are not feeling pressured. The team has trained and prepared thoroughly. Tomorrow, we hope to perform well and become champions.”
Aiming Beyond the Advantage
With a 2-1 lead from the first leg, Vietnam holds a slight advantage, needing only a draw to secure the title. However, Coach Kim emphasized that his team is aiming for more than just maintaining their lead. “This is not just a match between two teams; it is about national pride. Additionally, as two coaches from Japan and Korea face off, it symbolizes the fierce rivalry in Asian football,” he explained.
“Just a few days ago, we won. We will do everything to prepare mentally and physically to secure the championship. We have several tactical options for tomorrow, but we’re here to beat Thailand and claim the title,” Kim stressed.
Handling the Pressure of Rajamangala
Vietnam will face the challenge of playing in front of 50,000 Thai supporters at Rajamangala Stadium. While acknowledging the intensity of the atmosphere, Kim expressed confidence in his players’ readiness. “The energy from the stands will be palpable, but our preparation and the players’ strong mindset give us confidence,” he said.
Kim also noted the difference in weather, with Bangkok’s heat contrasting sharply with the cooler climate in northern Vietnam. “Over the past month, we’ve played eight matches in various weather conditions. It has been physically demanding, but I trust that the players will give their all to achieve our goal,” he added.
A Chance to Make History
The final offers Coach Kim an opportunity to join the ranks of his compatriot Park Hang-seo, who led Vietnam to their most recent AFF Cup triumph in 2018. A victory would not only secure Vietnam’s third title but also mark a significant milestone in the storied rivalry with Thailand.
Vietnam’s victory in the first leg at Viet Tri Stadium was their first over Thailand on home soil in 27 years in an official tournament, and their first against their rivals in a major competition since the 2008 final. That year, Vietnam defeated Thailand 2-1 at Rajamangala in the first leg before drawing 1-1 in Hanoi to claim their maiden AFF Cup title.
“This tournament is significant for fans in both Vietnam and Korea,” Kim noted, referencing the support he has received from Korean fans attending the matches. “The past few months have not been easy for me and the players as we adapted to new tactics and built this team. I thank the coaching staff, logistics team, medical team, and players for sticking together both on and off the field. We will fight as we’ve trained to reach our goal.”
The AFF Cup 2024 final second leg kicks off at 8:00 p.m. on January 5. Vietnam stands on the brink of history, and their performance in Bangkok will determine whether they can end their six-year wait for regional glory.
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