Coach Mai Duc Chung: 'Don't underestimate Malaysia at SEA Games 33'

Head coach of the Vietnamese women's team, Mr. Mai Duc Chung, was cautious against Malaysia in the opening match at the 33rd SEA Games.

Coach Mai Duc Chung is extremely cautious before the opening match - Photo: NAM TRAN

On the afternoon of December 4, at the press conference of Group B of the 33rd SEA Games women's football at Chonburi Stadium (Thailand), Coach Mai Duc Chung was very cautious before the opening match against Malaysia. He acknowledged the rapid progress of the regional opponents and asked his players to maintain high concentration.

Opening the interview, Coach Mai Duc Chung expressed his feelings when returning to Thailand after 6 years.

When asked about preparations for the opening match of Group B, the veteran strategist affirmed that the map of women's football in Southeast Asia is changing dramatically.

"I see that the level of women's football in the region is improving very quickly. Not only Thailand or the Philippines, but even Malaysia has made huge and strong investments. We are determined to face many difficulties and absolutely cannot underestimate or be subjective towards any opponent," coach Mai Duc Chung emphasized.

Mr. Chung's caution is completely justified, especially in the context that the Vietnamese women's team is facing a difficult problem in terms of personnel. He frankly shared that the team is in a period of strong force transition.

"Our team this time is much younger to replace older athletes who have retired. Besides, we suffered a big loss when important pillars like Chuong Thi Kieu or Duong Thi Van got injured and could not participate. Our professional strength may have decreased a bit, but we make up for it with youth and enthusiasm," Mr. Chung shared.

Despite facing many challenges from Malaysia's rise and many difficulties, the "captain" of the Vietnamese women's team still maintains faith in his students.

He affirmed: "Although circumstances have changed, our aspirations remain the same. The spirit of solidarity and indomitable will of Vietnamese women will be the strongest weapon for the whole team to overcome difficulties."

Coaches of Group B women's football SEA Games 33 attended the press conference on the afternoon of December 4 - Photo: NAM TRAN

The match between the Vietnamese women's team and the Malaysian women's team will take place at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow (December 5) at Chonburi Stadium. This will be the first important test to verify the mettle of the Vietnamese women's team, which is in the process of rejuvenation.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/hlv-mai-duc-chung-dung-xem-thuong-malaysia-o-sea-games-33-20251204145345003.htm