'Vietnam team can be as strong as Japan and Korea'

"The Vietnamese team is the strongest team in Southeast Asia in terms of individuals and overall tactics," coach Ha Hyeok-jun of the Lao team shared after a 1-4 defeat to the Vietnamese team in the opening match of the 2024 AFF Cup.

The Laos team played well in the first half when they held Vietnam to a 0-0 draw. However, after the break, coach Ha Hyeok-jun's students could no longer control the defense. 4 consecutive goals from Hai Long, Tien Linh, Van Toan and Van Vi helped the Vietnamese team open a "party" of goals and take all 3 points.

"The most impressive thing is that the Vietnamese team's physical condition is very good. Physical condition is a part that I think can help Vietnam approach Korea and Japan. With this squad, if they continue to improve, they can become a strong team in Asia, like Japan and Korea," the Laos coach added.

Vietnam team (white shirt) started with 3 full points

"We did our best tactically and learned a lot from this match. In the 4 months since we arrived here, we haven't had much time to work with the team. However, the Lao team knows how Vietnam plays and has a plan. However, the physical condition of the Lao players is still limited.

The difference was that the Lao team's physical strength decreased in the second half, especially from the 65th to the 70th minute, so we could not maintain the same playing intensity as in the first half. The Lao team tried to improve their physical strength, but it was not enough. The whole team must try harder," coach Ha Hyeok-jun added.

In the second round taking place on December 12, the Laos team will visit Indonesia's Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, where they won 1-0 against Myanmar to finish second after the opening round.

"The Indonesian team is also a strong team. Early tomorrow morning, we will have a long journey to Indonesia. I will try to restore the players' physical strength and help them feel comfortable," Mr. Ha Hyeok-jun affirmed.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hlv-doi-lao-doi-tuyen-viet-nam-co-the-manh-nhu-nhat-ban-va-han-quoc-185241209220204417.htm