U23 Vietnam barely beat Cambodia, what did coach Kim Sang Sik say?

Coach Kim Sang Sik was satisfied even though U23 Vietnam narrowly won 2-1 over Cambodia, and he believes his players will eliminate U23 Philippines in the semi-finals of U23 Southeast Asia 2025.

"Before talking about the match, I want to send my condolences about the heartbreaking incident in Ha Long Bay. I hope everyone in Vietnam is safe," coach Kim Sang Sik sent his condolences about the boat capsize in Ha Long Bay.

With a narrow 2-1 win over U23 Cambodia, U23 Vietnam entered the semi-finals of the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 tournament as group leader. Evaluating the match, coach Kim Sang Sik said: "I am very happy with this victory. Winning 2 matches in the group stage is thanks to the players and the support of the fans. In the semi-finals, we met U23 Philippines. The team is well prepared, aiming for victory.

Coach Kim Sang Sik evaluates the match. Photo: VFF

In the match against U23 Cambodia, before conceding the goal, we missed many opportunities, making things difficult. However, I still put my faith in the players, and U23 Vietnam deserved to win."

With the top spot in Group B, U23 Vietnam will meet U23 Philippines (second in Group A) in the semi-finals. The remaining semi-final match is a battle between U23 Thailand and U23 Indonesia.

Regarding meeting the Philippines in the semi-finals, coach Kim Sang Sik said: "U23 Philippines is a strong team with balance. We have analyzed this team. U23 Vietnam is confident of winning against the Philippines. They are also the away team so it will be easier than meeting the home team U23 Indonesia. And no matter who we meet, we must prepare carefully."

U23 Vietnam entered the semi-finals with the top spot in the group after 2 wins. Photo: VFF

Speaking about the goals from set pieces, the Korean strategist said: "We have three goals from set pieces, thanks to the central defenders. I hope they continue to score in the semi-finals and final. However, I also hope other players shine."

Meanwhile, striker Dinh Bac - who scored the winning goal 2-1 for U23 Vietnam, expressed his determination to reach the final: "U23 Vietnam and U23 Cambodia had a good match. We are determined to win in the semi-finals, and try harder, work harder to win the championship. I want to thank all Vietnamese fans."

Watch the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Football Championship live and in full on FPT Play, visit http://fptplay.vn

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/u23-viet-nam-thang-vat-va-2-1-campuchia-hlv-kim-sang-sik-noi-gi-2424761.html