Binh Duong – Cambodia’s head coach Koji Gyotoku and center-back Kan Mo expressed a mix of respect and ambition ahead of their national team’s friendly match against Vietnam, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on March 19 during the FIFA Days window. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the duo highlighted their determination to challenge the reigning ASEAN Cup champions, despite the absence of Vietnam’s star striker Nguyen Xuan Son. The game offers Cambodia a chance to test their mettle and gain valuable experience against one of Southeast Asia’s football powerhouses.
Coach Gyotoku had hoped his players could face off against Nguyen Xuan Son, a standout performer sidelined since an injury at the 2024 ASEAN Cup. With Xuan Son unavailable, the Japanese tactician shifted his focus to another Vietnamese talent. “I wanted our team to compete against Xuan Son, but Vietnam has many quality players who can trouble us,” he said. “I’m particularly impressed with Hoang Duc on the left flank—he’s a player we’ll need to watch closely.” Gyotoku’s comments reflect his admiration for Vietnam’s depth and his intent to prepare his squad for a tough battle.
The Cambodian coach didn’t shy away from setting lofty goals. “Our aim is to win,” he declared. “It’s a tough task because Vietnam is among the strongest teams in Southeast Asia. We’re not fully prepared, but we want to showcase our potential. Beyond victory, this match is about gaining experience against the 2024 ASEAN Cup winners.” Gyotoku’s strategy blends ambition with pragmatism, aiming to upset Vietnam while sharpening his team’s edge for future contests.
Joining Gyotoku at the press conference, center-back Kan Mo echoed his coach’s sentiments. The South African-born naturalized player praised Vietnam’s prowess but vowed a fearless approach. “I have great respect for Vietnam—they’re a very strong side,” Kan Mo said. “But tomorrow, we’ll play with maximum confidence, sticking to the coach’s tactics and giving everything to prove ourselves.” His words signal Cambodia’s intent to make a statement on Vietnamese soil.
The friendly comes after Cambodia’s notable showing at the 2024 ASEAN Cup, where they beat Timor Leste, drew with Malaysia, and narrowly lost to Thailand (2-3) and Singapore (1-2) under Gyotoku’s guidance. Their squad, bolstered by naturalized talents like Kan Mo, Japanese defenders Takaki Ose and Yudai Ogawa, Colombian midfielder Andres Nieto, Ivorian striker Abdel Kader Coulibaly, and Cambodian-American Nick Taylor, brings a diverse and dynamic edge. Facing Vietnam—a team fresh off their ASEAN Cup triumph—offers a high-stakes opportunity to measure their progress.
For Gyotoku, the match is personal as well as professional. Having coached in Japan before taking the Cambodian helm, he’s familiar with high-level competition and sees this as a chance to elevate his squad’s reputation. “Vietnam’s strength is clear, but we’re here to fight,” he said. “Every minute against them is a lesson.” Kan Mo, a key figure in Cambodia’s defense, shares that hunger. “We’re not just visitors—we want to leave with something to show for it,” he added.
As the teams prepare to clash, anticipation is building. Vietnam, training in Binh Duong since March 12, views the game as a tune-up for their Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Laos on March 25. Cambodia, meanwhile, sees it as a proving ground. With Gyotoku targeting Hoang Duc and Kan Mo anchoring the backline, the visitors are poised to test Vietnam’s resolve in a match that promises intensity and intrigue.
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