Iraq coach: 'We aim for victory against the Vietnamese team'

After a 2-1 victory over Japan in the second match of the Asian Cup, Iraq became the first team in Group D to qualify for the Round of 16. Therefore, the match with Vietnam is almost just a formality, or just to determine the top position in the group. Therefore, the West Asian team is quite comfortable in this competition. However, coach Jesus Casas affirmed that Iraq will field the strongest squad in the final match of the group stage against the Vietnamese team.

“It is too early to think about the round of 16 and forget about the opponent in front of us, the Vietnamese team. We need to solve each match. There is no way that the Iraqi team will take the remaining match of Group D lightly.

Iraq is a team of players who are always full of fighting spirit and thirst for victory. No matter the circumstances, we always aim for victory.

I am proud of the players. All Iraqis are also proud of the national team. They are the ones who are trying very hard to dedicate themselves to the fans", coach Jesus Casas affirmed.

Meanwhile, the Vietnam team also said goodbye to the 2023 Asian Cup early, so this match is only an honor for coach Troussier and his team in the highest tournament in the continent.

Also because of the honor, fans and experts also hope that the Vietnamese team will play a great match against the much higher rated opponent, Iraq. However, whether the Vietnamese team can do that or not, perhaps we still have to review the way coach Troussier conducts mental therapy for his students, especially the young players.

Coach Troussier asked his players to keep their spirits up and move forward with positive thoughts and actions. The French coach emphasized:"The Vietnamese team is not allowed to give up, must maintain fighting spirit in all circumstances."

The match between Vietnam and Iraq will take place at 6:30 p.m. on January 24.