Waiting for Tuan Hai to explode.

Hanoi FC faces a challenging away match against Pohang Steelers. The first difficulty stems from the temperature difference between Vietnam and South Korea. Currently, Vietnam still experiences high temperatures while South Korea is already very cold. The players had to wear multiple layers of thick jackets during the past two training sessions.

Besides objective reasons, from a professional standpoint, Hanoi FC is considered significantly weaker than Pohang Steelers. In the first leg at home, Hanoi FC was almost unable to withstand Pohang Steelers' attack. The only bright spot for the capital city team was Tagueu's performance.

However, the striker will be unavailable due to a suspension. It's highly likely that Hanoi FC will field three domestic strikers: Van Quyet, Van Tung, and Tuan Hai. Pham Tuan Hai will play the main attacking role, while Van Quyet and Van Tung will move more widely to create space for their teammates.

In fact, Hanoi FC is not yet out of the competition this year. They are tied on points with Urawa Red Diamonds and have the right to dream of advancing. Pohang Steelers are currently focusing on the domestic league and will likely rest their key players when facing Hanoi FC.

Coach Kim Gi-dong is considering using a lineup consisting entirely of domestic players and reserves. Even so, Pohang Steelers are still considered the stronger team. However, Hanoi FC clearly has a greater chance. If they play with confidence and a little luck, Hanoi FC could pull off an upset.

Pohang Steelers vs Hanoi FC

Pohang Steelers currently have their strongest squad available, with no significant injuries or suspensions. However, the South Korean team needs to conserve its strength for the domestic league.

Hanoi FC will continue to be without striker Joel Tagueu due to suspension. New signing Denilson is not registered to play in the AFC Champions League. Striker Caion has terminated his contract. Dao Van Nam returns after his suspension, and Duy Manh has fully recovered from his traffic accident injury.

Pohang Steelers vs Hanoi FC form

Pohang Steelers are in excellent form in the AFC Champions League with four consecutive wins, scoring 11 goals and conceding only 4. Meanwhile, they have won 4 and lost 1 in the domestic league. Their only defeat came against league leaders Ulsan Hyundai.

Hanoi FC have lost 3 of their last 5 matches in all competitions, but their 2 wins came in their last 2 games. The 3 points against Wuhan Three Towns in the AFC Champions League and the victory against Binh Duong in the V.League both demonstrate Hanoi FC's commendable efforts to overcome difficulties.

Predicted lineups for Pohang Steelers vs Hanoi FC

Pohang Steelers: Hwang In Jae, Park Seung Wook, Grant, Shin Kwang Hoon, Park Chan Yong, Han Chan Hee, Yoon Jae Woon, Hong Yun Sang, Kim Jun Ho, Lee Ho Jae, Goh Young Jun.

Hanoi: Tan Truong, Le Tallec, Brandon Wilson, Thanh Chung, Xuan Manh, Van Toan, Van Xuan, Marcao, Tuan Hai, Van Quyet, Van Tung.

Prediction: Pohang Steelers 1-1 Hanoi FC

Mai Phuong

Source