Coach Kim Sang Sik and Doan Van Hau demonstrate high determination, aiming for victory against Malaysia even though the match no longer holds much significance in terms of points.
Before the match against Malaysia, Coach Kim Sang Sikand defender Doan Van Hau shared notable remarks, showing the high determination of the Vietnamese national team despite having already achieved the goal of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
Speaking at the press conference, Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized that the upcoming match still holds important significance. “We have secured qualification for the finals, but that does not make tomorrow’s match less important. The whole team still aims for victory, and we also see this as preparation for major tournaments next year,” he stated.
The Korean coach also mentioned that the team is thoroughly prepared in terms of both personnel and tactics. Even though the opponent is missing some players, he believes it does not create a significant difference. “Every team wants to win. Malaysia is missing 7 players, but we are also not fully equipped, such as in the case of Dinh Bac. However, the whole team is ready for the match,” he added.
Not only aiming for victory, Coach Kim Sang Sikalso expressed confidence by setting a specific expectation: “The overall goal is to win, and personally I hope the national team will win 2-0.” At the same time, he candidly reflected on the 0-4 loss in the first leg as a major motivation: “That was a disappointment, but it also serves as motivation for us to strive for a better result and to give it to the fans.”
From the players’ side, Doan Van Hau represented the whole team in expressing a determined spirit. “Whether it’s a friendly match or just a formal one, every time we step onto the field we fight wholeheartedly for the flag and jersey,” he shared. The defender born in 1999 was also emotional when talking about his return to the national team after a long absence, considering it a great happiness in his career.
Looking ahead to the match against Malaysia, Van Hau said this has always been a fateful matchup and is not easy. “Every encounter with Malaysia is a big match. The upcoming match will be tight and fierce; the team that minimizes mistakes better will have the chance to win,” he assessed.
While admitting he doesn’t have much experience facing this opponent, Van Hau affirmed he will give maximum effort if given the opportunity: “I will follow the tactics, maintain discipline, and play my best for the common goal.”
With thorough preparation and high determination, the Vietnamese national team is aiming for a convincing victory to conclude the qualifying round with a complete performance for the fans.