Ho Chi Minh City – At 7:00 p.m. on March 22, Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC will face off against UAE’s Abu Dhabi Country at Thong Nhat Stadium in the quarterfinals of the 2024/25 AFC Women’s Club Championship, promising an electrifying showdown between two evenly matched teams. Both sides have showcased consistent form and boast quality squads, setting the stage for a fiercely contested battle. Playing on home soil, the Vietnamese club is determined to advance to the semifinals and bring pride to the nation.
In a pre-match press conference, head coach Nguyen Hong Pham exuded confidence while acknowledging the challenge ahead. “Every team in the quarterfinals deserves to be here—they all have strengths,” he said. “Abu Dhabi Country is a worthy opponent, but we always step onto the pitch with the highest desire to win.” Pham revealed that his squad is prepared for all scenarios, including extra time or penalties. “I’ve been assisting Coach Kim Hong with our three goalkeepers,” he added. “This match is crucial, and I want them at their peak for 90—or even 120—minutes to maximize our defensive strength.”
On the team’s roster, Pham highlighted the successful integration of foreign and overseas Vietnamese players. “Initially, our foreign recruits faced challenges with time zones and weather, but they’ve adapted well now,” he noted. “The overseas Vietnamese players are especially driven to prove themselves, training with real enthusiasm.” This blend of talent has bolstered the team’s cohesion, a key factor as they face Abu Dhabi’s formidable lineup.
Captain and striker Huynh Nhu, a talisman for the club, expressed optimism about their chances. “We’ve studied Abu Dhabi Country closely,” she said. “They have skilled foreign players and performed well against top Asian teams in the group stage. It’s a 50-50 match—whichever team seizes their chances will win. Playing at home, we’ll give everything for a positive result.” Despite Abu Dhabi’s physical advantage, Huynh Nhu downplayed the concern. “Yes, they’re taller, but our coach has drilled us on countering bigger opponents. Our overseas players help with aerial defense and long shots. We’ve got a plan—we’re not intimidated.”
With meticulous preparation and a roaring home crowd behind them, Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC is poised to make a statement. A victory would not only secure a semifinal spot but also elevate Vietnam’s standing in Asian women’s football. As kickoff nears, the team’s resolve is clear: turn Thong Nhat Stadium into a fortress and write a new chapter of glory.
Leave a Reply