Coach Hoang Anh Tuan: 'New Zealand probably thinks that Vietnam is new to football'

Vietnam's strategist shared before the opening match against New Zealand at the U20 FIFA World Cup 2017.

Coach Hoang Anh Tuan said he has carefully prepared a plan to counter New Zealand's high balls. Photo: Duc Dong

“The opponents said that Vietnam’s advantage is that it is their first time participating in the World Cup. They mean that our level is low, maybe we just know how to play football. It’s okay. The lower New Zealand rating, the better,” coach Hoang Anh Tuan told VnExpress on the afternoon of May 21. “I like being the underdog. It’s easier to play in that position.”

This is the first time Vietnam has participated in the U20 FIFA World Cup. Coach Hoang Anh Tuan and his team will play their opening match against the reigning U20 Oceania champions New Zealand at 4 p.m. (Hanoi time) on May 22.

“We are very proud to be in Korea, participating in the U20 FIFA World Cup for the first time. This is a great opportunity to develop Vietnamese football, creating a better future. Thanks to participating in this tournament, everyone feels honored and sees the great role of youth training. Only by doing good youth football can we develop,” added coach Hoang Anh Tuan.

The Khanh Hoa strategist said the whole team is ready to take the field. However, he refused to reveal what they have practiced and how they will approach the match. “We will reveal that on the field, everyone wait and see,” said coach Hoang Anh Tuan.

To preserve the pitch, FIFA does not allow teams to get used to the main pitch. Coach Hoang Anh Tuan said this is not a big problem, he and his students are ready to play anywhere, anytime. Furthermore, this is a rule for all teams, not just Vietnam.

Before the big match, captain Quang Hai called on fans to believe in and cheer for U20 Vietnam. “Everyone, please support us. We promise to play our best to repay you,” said the midfielder of Hanoi FC.

According to VNE