Vietnam U23 captain evaluates Indonesia, wants to attend World Cup

(Dan Tri) - Captain of the U23 Vietnam team, Khuat Van Khang, shared on the homepage of the Southeast Asian Football Federation (AFF) before the final match of the U23 Southeast Asian tournament with U23 Indonesia.

Vietnam U23 captain Khuat Van Khang praised his teammates' fighting spirit and resilience before the final match of the Southeast Asian U23 tournament against Indonesia U23 at Bung Karno Stadium at 8pm on July 29.

Khuat Van Khang praised the fighting spirit of U23 Vietnam (Photo: AFF).

Van Khang started in the 2023 final in Rayong (Thailand), where Vietnam U23 defeated Indonesia after a penalty shootout. The 22-year-old player shared with the AFF homepage that he was very eager to play the role of captain of the team in the journey to defend the championship.

Below is Khuat Van Khang's interview:

Congratulations to you and the Vietnam U23 team for reaching the final of the U23 Southeast Asian tournament once again. How do you rate the team's performance at this tournament?

- I am very proud of the fighting spirit of the whole team. We played together, followed the tactics and always gave our all in every match. Reaching the final is a worthy reward for everyone's efforts.

You were part of the Vietnam U23 team that won the 2023 Southeast Asian U23 Championship. How do you feel about taking on the role of leader of the current U23 team as one of the most experienced players?

- I don't see it as a burden but as a responsibility. As captain, I try to support my teammates both on and off the field. I want to bring confidence and positive energy to the whole team.

You faced U23 Indonesia in the final in 2023. Are you excited to face U23 Indonesia again on their home field?

- Playing against Indonesia on their home field will certainly be a big challenge, because they always receive enthusiastic support from home fans. But that is also the motivation for us to show our bravery. We will prepare carefully and enter the match with the highest confidence.

Khuat Van Khang hopes to attend the World Cup (Photo: AFC).

How do you rate the difference between the current U23 Vietnam squad and the squad that won the tournament in 2023?

- Each generation has its own identity. This year's squad is younger, with many players participating in the tournament for the first time. But what hasn't changed is the team spirit and the desire to give our all for the country. That's what makes me believe in our collective strength.

Which player on the current team impresses you the most?

- Many players have played well, but if I had to choose one, I would say Nguyen Xuan Bac. He plays aggressively, decisively and often creates breakthroughs in attack.

What do you expect in the upcoming season when you play for both the national team and The Cong Viettel Club?

- I always try my best in every match, whether for the Vietnam national team or for The Cong Viettel Club. The upcoming season is an opportunity for me to continue to improve myself and contribute more to both teams.

What is your long term goal in your football career?

- Like many other players, I dream of playing at the highest level. I hope to continue playing for the national team and one day play abroad to gain more experience. Most importantly, I hope to play in the World Cup.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/doi-truong-u23-viet-nam-danh-gia-ve-indonesia-muon-tham-du-world-cup-20250728194328594.htm