Bangkok, 9 December 2025 – Midfielder Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong, affirmed that U22 Vietnam are fully focused on defeating U23 Malaysia at SEA Games 33, while also sharing how the team relaxes during downtime.
On the afternoon of 9 December, U22 Vietnam continued their training session at RBAC University Stadium in Bangkok under cooler weather conditions. Midfielder Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong was selected by head coach Kim Sang Sik to speak with the media, offering insights into the team’s mindset ahead of the decisive group-stage match.
Quoc Cuong, who plays for Ho Chi Minh City Police FC, shared that the morale within the squad remains extremely high as they prepare for U22 Malaysia. “Right now, the entire team is determined and focused on the match against U22 Malaysia. Coach Kim Sang Sik and the whole team have one shared objective — to win,” he stated.
This is the 2004-born midfielder’s first SEA Games, and he described it as a major milestone in his career. “My personal goal is to train and play my best whenever I get the chance. My main objective is the same as the team’s — to win the SEA Games gold medal.”
The U23 Vietnam playmaker also addressed discussions circulating in Indonesian media, claiming Vietnam might settle for a draw with Malaysia so both teams can advance. Quoc Cuong firmly rejected the speculation. “I watched the Vietnam women’s team lose to the Philippines in stoppage time. It was unfortunate, and I felt the referee should have awarded a penalty in the final moment,” he said.
“We also saw U22 Indonesia lose 0-1 to U22 Philippines. But personally, and as a team, we do not think about playing for a draw. Our mindset is to win against U23 Malaysia.”
Quoc Cuong has been one of the standout young midfielders in V.League 1 this season, playing a key role in Ho Chi Minh City Police FC’s top-five position and contributing three goals and one assist. His talent has also drawn public attention due to his family connection with Cong Phuong, but the young midfielder insists the relationship brings motivation, not pressure.
“For me, being Cong Phuong’s cousin doesn’t create any pressure — it’s a source of pride for myself and my family. He always gives me advice, pointing out areas I need to improve,” Quoc Cuong shared confidently.
He also highlighted the team’s strong spirit heading into their crucial match. “The most important thing for U22 Vietnam to succeed is mentality, followed by determination and attitude. Without the right attitude, it’s hard to perform well. Team unity is also key, and we have shown that in recent days.”
Quoc Cuong added that he hopes to score for U22 Vietnam — whether from long range or any opportunity that arises. “At SEA Games we face difficulties, but those are external factors. The more challenges we overcome, the more meaningful success becomes.”
When asked about how the team relaxes during downtime, Quoc Cuong smiled and revealed a lighthearted detail: “Whenever we have free time, we usually sit together and play football games like FIFA or PES.”
Thanh Tung
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