AFF Cup 2018 Final Second Leg: Cong Phuong in the starting lineup?
(Baonghean.vn) - Since the beginning of the tournament, Coach Park Hang-seo has always changed at least one position in the starting lineup for the next match. Most likely, the upcoming second leg of the final will be no exception.
In the first leg of the final, the Korean strategist surprised everyone by using Ha Duc Chinh from the start, replacing Nguyen Anh Duc. Objectively speaking, Coach Park Hang-seo's decision was completely correct. The appearance of Ha Duc Chinh disoriented the Malaysian defense, leading to 2 quick goals with quite similar scenarios.
It is very likely that with his habit, Mr. Park will change the starting lineup of the Vietnam team in the second leg of the final. The defense and midfield lines will almost not be disrupted, so the attack line is where coach Park Hang-seo will create surprises.
The positions of Phan Van Duc and Nguyen Quang Hai at this time are "untouchable", only the highest position on the attack line remains, which is assigned to Nguyen Anh Duc, Nguyen Tien Linh and Ha Duc Chinh.
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Nguyen Cong Phuong was the one who scored the opening goal against Malaysia in the group stage. Photo: Internet |
Considering many factors, especially coach Park Hang-seo’s habits, Nguyen Cong Phuong is the face with the most opportunities to start in the upcoming match. Because in a game (most likely) of tight defense – quick counterattack, the player wearing the number 14 shirt is the most suitable.
With a skillful technical foundation, extremely energetic (constantly coming off the bench), and good ability to fight independently, Nguyen Cong Phuong will be the top choice of coach Park Hang-seo.
Speaking to the press, expert Le Thuy Hai predicted: “I think Mr. Park will keep the same playing style as the first leg, but in terms of personnel, he needs to change. If he plays counter-attack, he needs Cong Phuong. Maybe coach Park Hang-seo likes young players to play aggressively, counter-attack without hesitation. Van Duc, Duc Chinh or Tien Linh like to receive the ball in front of them, not like receiving the ball at their feet like Cong Phuong, that is the difference.”
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Expert Le Thuy Hai also predicted that Nguyen Cong Phuong will start in the second leg of the final. Photo: Internet |
Expert Le Thuy Hai's prediction is completely reasonable, because he is a talented coach and closely follows the preparation and competition process of the Vietnam National Team at the AFF Cup 2018.
Besides, Nguyen Cong Phuong was the one who scored the opening goal against Malaysia in the group stage match. And let’s not forget, the striker from Nghe An is the “nemesis” of Malaysian football, having scored 5 goals against the teams of this country.
However, the final decision is made by coach Park Hang-seo. Let's wait and see whether Nguyen Cong Phuong will be able to start in the second leg of the final.
