Korean media praises coach Kim Sang-sik's 'magic'

TPO - The Vietnam U23 team and coach Kim Sang-sik continue to receive a shower of praise from the South Korean press after their emotional victory against the UAE U23 team in the quarter-finals of the Asian U23 Championship.

Vietnam U23 team won a thrilling match in the quarter-finals.

Korean media outlets suggest that Vietnam's youth team reaching the semi-finals is not a coincidence, but rather the result of a well-organized tactical approach and the clear influence of coach Kim Sang-sik. The U23 Vietnam team demonstrated resilience when facing opponents considered superior in physique and fitness. Despite facing considerable difficulties during periods of pressure, Coach Kim's team maintained composure, strictly adhered to their tactics, and patiently waited for opportunities.

They also particularly emphasized the ability to adjust tactics during the match. Changing personnel and the approach to the game at different stages helped the Vietnam U23 team avoid being drawn into the opponent's rhythm. Players coming on from the bench were considered to have made a difference, contributing to changing the course of the match at crucial moments.

News.zum published an article titled "Kim Sang-sik's magic shakes Jeddah: Vietnam U23 defeats UAE after 120 breathtaking minutes." The article highlighted the tactical prowess of coach Kim Sang-sik, evident in his substitutions, particularly the introduction of striker Dinh Bac in the first half. Just four minutes after coming on, he assisted Nguyen Le Phat in opening the scoring in the 39th minute, and then scored a superb header to make it 2-1 in the second half.

News.nate praised the coaching skills of Kim Sang-sik and the resounding achievement of the Vietnam U23 team: "Eight years after the miracle in Changzhou in 2018 under coach Park Hang-seo, Vietnamese football has once again experienced the feeling of reaching the semi-finals of an Asian U-23 Championship. The person who accomplished this historic mission is none other than coach Kim Sang-sik - who is continuing to write the golden pages of history left by his predecessor Park Hang-seo."

While Japan's U23 team advanced to the semi-finals somewhat luckily due to their opponent's mistakes, Vietnam's U23 team progressed through resilience and a fiery attacking style. Facing a physically superior UAE U23 team, the Vietnamese players persevered, chasing the score and ultimately defeating their opponents with an iron will in extra time.

Defeating a Middle Eastern football powerhouse in a fiercely contested match demonstrated the remarkable progress in physical fitness and tactical thinking of the young Vietnamese players.

"Kim Sang-sik's magic is not just a legacy, but also a new upgrade for Vietnamese football. The next challenge for Coach Kim and his team will be the winner of the match between Uzbekistan U23 and China U23. With this form, the dream of reaching the Asian final is once again within reach for Vietnam U23."

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Source: https://tienphong.vn/bao-han-quoc-ca-ngoi-phep-thuat-cua-hlv-kim-sang-sik-post1813611.tpo