Binh Duong – Laos head coach Ha Hyeok Jun has vowed to make life tough for Vietnam in their Asian Cup 2027 qualifier opener on March 25 at Go Dau Stadium, while expressing a broader vision to elevate Lao football by sending players to leagues like Vietnam’s V-League.
Ahead of the 7:30 p.m. clash, Ha acknowledged Vietnam’s strength but promised a gritty fight, even as his team contends with limited preparation and integration challenges.
Ha remained defiant despite Laos’ 4-1 loss to Vietnam in the 2024 ASEAN Cup: “We don’t know tomorrow’s outcome, but we’ll give everything to ensure Vietnam doesn’t win easily.” He highlighted logistical hurdles, noting, “We’ve had less than 10 days to prepare. Our three Europe-based players only joined us two days before the Sri Lanka friendly [a 2-1 loss]. They’ve barely trained with the squad, so I can’t fully assess them yet.” Still, he’s focused on long-term growth: “I want Laos to get stronger with our native players. Sending them to play in Korea, Thailand, or Vietnam is the key to progress.”
Lao midfielder Damoth Thongkhamsavath, set to join Thanh Hoa FC in the V-League, echoed the team’s resolve. “I’ve got Vietnamese blood and feel the love from fans here,” he said. “After the ASEAN Cup, I played in Laos’ league and improved a lot. I’m excited for the V-League. Tomorrow, we’ll minimize mistakes and aim for at least a point.” His move underscores Ha’s ambition to expose Lao talent to tougher competition, with Thanh Hoa offering a platform post-match.
Ha sees the Binh Duong clash as a test of grit rather than a definitive statement, given the rushed buildup. Vietnam’s coach Kim Sang-sik, targeting a big win, faces a Laos side bolstered by naturalized players but still finding cohesion. For Ha, a stubborn performance—coupled with future V-League stints—could signal Laos’ ascent, even if points prove elusive on March 25.
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