What did coach Kim Sang-sik say before the crucial match against U22 Malaysia?

In Group B, U22 Malaysia currently leads with the same 3 points as U22 Vietnam, but has a goal difference of +3 compared to +1 for U22 Vietnam. Therefore, U22 Vietnam must win on December 11th to secure first place in the group and advance to the semi-finals.

Before the final training session of the Vietnam U22 team in preparation for the crucial match against Malaysia U22, taking place on the afternoon of December 10th in Bangkok (Thailand), coach Kim Sang-sik stated that the coaching staff had thoroughly analyzed the team after directly watching them play.

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VHO - The 4-1 victory of U22 Malaysia over U22 Laos in the second match of Group B of SEA Games 33 brought difficulties to U22 Vietnam.

Kim said: “Malaysia is physically strong and plays a powerful attacking game. However, we have prepared thoroughly both physically and tactically. Through professional meetings and the players' diligent training, we are confident that we will achieve our goals.”

With Malaysia needing only a draw to secure first place in the group, and Vietnam U22 needing a win, coach Kim Sang-sik affirmed that his team would approach the game aggressively and proactively.

What did coach Kim Sang-sik say before the crucial match against U22 Malaysia? - image 3 — The U22 Vietnam team will aim for victory to advance to the next round.

The South Korean coach stated: "I always remind the players that tomorrow's match is not just a group stage game, but more like a knockout match. Winning is a mandatory goal for the Vietnam U22 team."

Responding to fans' comments about the lackluster first half against Laos, coach Kim Sang-sik shared: “We created quite a few opportunities but didn't capitalize on them. The first few matches are always difficult, but the team will gradually improve with each game. I believe the victory against Laos will boost the players' confidence to aim for the next win.”

What did coach Kim Sang-sik say before the crucial match against U22 Malaysia? - image 4 — Provisional standings in Group B

The South Korean coach also revealed that the team's fighting spirit is very high: "I know the national team just lost 0-4 to Malaysia and that has somewhat affected the overall morale. The U22 players feel their pride has been hurt, so they are very determined, training intensely and preparing thoroughly for the next match."

The match between Vietnam U22 and Malaysia U22 will take place at 4:00 PM on December 11th. This is considered the "final match of Group B," deciding the ticket to the semi-finals as the group winner.