Vietnam U22 returns to training ground, preparing for the SEA Games 33 semi-final match.

On the afternoon of December 12th, the Vietnam U22 team returned to training to prepare for their semi-final match in the men's football event at the 33rd SEA Games against the Philippines U22 team. The training session took place after a strenuous day of competition against Malaysia U22, so the coaching staff devised a suitable training plan for each group of players.

The U22 Vietnam players are enthusiastic on the training field. (Photo: VFF)

From the start of the training session, coach Kim Sang Sik divided the team into two groups. The group of players who had played over 60 minutes in the match against Malaysia only did stretching and relaxation exercises, and received direct tactical analysis and feedback from the head coach right on the training ground. The other group trained with higher intensity, focusing on strengthening their physical fitness, coordinating attacks, and organizing defense.

Before training, midfielder Nguyen Phi Hoang shared with the media about the team's atmosphere and the spirit leading up to the important match. He said: "The atmosphere in the locker room after securing a place in the semi-finals is very joyful. Coach Kim congratulated us on the victory but also reminded the whole team to quickly focus on the next match."

Regarding their opponent, the U22 Philippines, Phi Hoang said that the entire team is still in the process of analyzing and understanding their opponent. “Currently, we haven’t done in-depth research on the Philippines. The whole team is maintaining focus and adhering to the tactics set by the coaching staff. Today, the whole team will train seriously and discuss more to prepare as best as possible for the upcoming match,” he said.

Having played a part in Vietnam U23's victory over the Philippines U23 in the semi-finals of the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship, Phi Hoang remains cautious in his assessment of the opponent. According to him, the Philippines is a strong team with a modern playing style and good physical fitness. The most important thing for Vietnam U22 remains maintaining focus and entering the field with the highest fighting spirit.

The Vietnam U22 team has two days to refine their tactical strategies before the semi-final match. The goal for coach Kim Sang Sik and his team is to reach the final of the men's football tournament at the 33rd SEA Games.

HUY AN

Source: https://nhandan.vn/u22-viet-nam-tro-lai-san-tap-chuan-bi-cho-tran-ban-ket-sea-games-33-post929889.html