Hanoi: Students "roll" with the Vietnam - Iraq match

(Baonghean.vn) - Although the Vietnamese team could not win against Iraq, which was considered much stronger, the home fans' support was still very enthusiastic for coach Huu Thang and his students.

Sharing the same beat of millions of football fans’ hearts across the country, the capital Hanoi is no exception tonight. Coffee shops are packed with football fans, most of whom are still students.

The row of cafes on Dang Van Ngu Street, Hanoi is the perfect place for football lovers. Many fans, especially students, have gathered here to join in the atmosphere of cheering for the team.

A really tough match for the Vietnamese team as we were completely outclassed by the home team Iraq. The excitement on the faces was evident as we watched every move and step of the players.

When the final whistle blew with the victory for the Iraqi team, disappointment was the common feeling of all fans. However, the love for the team and the belief in coach Huu Thang are always strong. Le Doan Tri (right), a student at Hanoi Medical University, from Nghe An shared: "Everyone is sad and regretful when Vietnam lost the match. But we fought with all our might, that is the important thing. I still always have faith and support coach Huu Thang."

Tran Dinh Manh, a student at the National Economics University, chose to watch the match in the dormitory security room, sharing: "I have an early class tomorrow but still have to spend time watching the match. I have never missed any of the Vietnam team's matches. Even though our team lost, I am still satisfied because the players played their best against a very strong opponent."

If Vietnam had won this match, we would have seen the fans celebrating tonight. Unfortunately, with a 1-0 defeat to Iraq, the streets of Hanoi after the match were as desolate as the sadness of Vietnamese fans.

Nhat Minh