Coach Kim Sang-sik left open the possibility of Ly Duc playing. Photo: Doan Ca. |
“Ly Duc suffered an ankle injury during the warm-up before the match against U23 Cambodia. He tried to play but then had to leave the field early because the situation became more serious. We will monitor further in today's training session to make a final decision,” coach Kim Sang-sik confirmed at a press conference before the semi-final match against U23 Philippines on the afternoon of July 24.
Ly Duc's possible absence is a big loss for the U23 Vietnam defense, especially when this center-back scored the opening goal in the 3-0 victory over U23 Cambodia. However, coach Kim Sang-sik still maintains a positive spirit and emphasizes the goal of going far in the tournament.
“First of all, I am very happy that the team has reached the semi-finals. We won two group stage matches thanks to the efforts of the whole team, from the players to the coaching staff and logistics staff. U23 Vietnam will continue to give their all and prepare well to have a favorable result in the next match,” said the Korean strategist.
Commenting on U23 Philippines, the opponent of U23 Vietnam in the semi-finals, coach Kim Sang-sik highly appreciated the disciplined playing style and quick counter-attacking ability of this team. “They have two very dangerous players, number 7 and number 20. Our defenders need to concentrate to block these attacks,” he emphasized.
The Korean strategist also said that the four teams in the semi-finals are all of equal quality. “Malaysia played well in the group stage but were unlucky. At this point, all the teams are strong and have equal chances,” he added.
For his part, goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien expressed his determination before the knockout stage: "In the past time, my team and I have always been highly focused, maintaining our fighting spirit to look forward to the two important matches ahead."
The semi-final match between U23 Vietnam and U23 Philippines will take place at 4:00 p.m. on July 25.
Source: https://znews.vn/hlv-kim-sang-sik-bo-ngo-kha-nang-ra-san-cua-ly-duc-o-ban-ket-post1571262.html
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