Coach Kim Sang-sik unexpectedly praised the Philippines U22 team ahead of the SEA Games 33 semi-final.

TPO - Coach Kim Sang-sik assessed that the U22 Philippines team is stronger than in their last encounter with U22 Vietnam, but he and his players are ready for the semi-final match of the SEA Games 33.

Coach Kim Sang-sik praised the Philippines U22 team but believes Vietnam U22 will win the match (photo by Huu Pham).

"First of all, we are very happy to be in the semi-finals of the SEA Games 33. However, our goal is not just to reach the semi-finals, but to achieve a higher position. Therefore, tomorrow the Vietnam U22 team will definitely fight to win."

"Currently, our players are well-prepared tactically, physically, and mentally," coach Kim Sang-sik began his press conference in Bangkok on the afternoon of December 14.

In the group stage, the U22 Philippines pulled off a major surprise by defeating the defending champions, U22 Indonesia, contributing to Indonesia's early exit from the competition. According to coach Kim Sang-sik, the U22 Philippines team is stronger now than when they lost 1-2 to U22 Vietnam most recently. Nevertheless, the South Korean coach affirmed that he and his players are ready to aim for victory.

Coach Kim Sang-sik said: "I think that compared to the time before we met, the Philippines U22 team is stronger. Their key players have returned, so they have improved in terms of formation and organization."

Although Vietnam U23 won 2-1 last time, I can't guarantee a win tomorrow. Our players are still preparing very well, so we have a certain level of confidence." Coach Kim Sang-sik believes both teams are determined, so whichever team is better prepared and puts in more effort will win.

Midfielder Khuất Văn Khang shared that he and his teammates trained hard, played with effort, and felt no pressure before facing the U22 Philippines team.

"Having reached the semi-finals, every opponent is formidable. However, we will strive for the honor of our country. The whole team is very confident that we will win," said Van Khang.

Watch SEA Games 33, stand alongside the Vietnamese Sports Delegation, in its entirety onFPT Play, at: http://fptplay.vn

Source: https://tienphong.vn/hlv-kim-sang-sik-bat-ngo-khen-ngoi-u22-philippines-truoc-ban-ket-sea-games-33-post1804542.tpo