Coach Kim Sang-sik: U23 Vietnam is capable of defeating any opponent to win the championship
Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed satisfaction with his players' performance in the semi-final match, and affirmed that U23 Vietnam is capable of defeating all opponents to defend the title at the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 tournament.
On the afternoon of July 25, U23 Vietnam came from behind to win 2-1 against U23 Philippines, thereby winning the right to enter the final of the U23 Southeast Asian tournament. Speaking at the press conference after the match, coach Kim Sang-sik was satisfied with the spirit and performance of his players.
“I am very happy to win and reach the final. The players tried very hard, I want to thank them. All positions played well, showing exactly what the team had prepared before the match. U23 Vietnam created many opportunities, the players followed the tactics well. Although we won 2-1, we missed many opportunities, but I am still very happy with this result,” the Korean coach shared.
When asked about who he wants to face in the final, coach Kim Sang-sik said that the most important thing is the team's preparation, regardless of who the opponent is.
“It will be difficult to face any team in the final. The important thing is that the whole team needs to rest, prepare carefully and maintain the confidence like today. Whether facing U23 Thailand or U23 Indonesia, if U23 Vietnam prepares well, we can win to take the championship.”
Coach Kim also expressed his respect for both remaining teams in the race: “We have not met U23 Indonesia under the current coach. I will watch the match tonight to analyze the difference between them and the team under former coach Shin Tae Yong. Now, I think U23 Indonesia is stronger.”
He added: “U23 Indonesia also tried to control the match, but not as much as U23 Vietnam. They are especially dangerous in situations where they drop the ball behind the opponent's defense.”
In addition, midfielder Xuan Bac, who scored the winning goal with a tricky header in the 54th minute, also shared: “This was a difficult match but the coaching staff came up with a reasonable strategy to win. The whole team needs to improve their finishing to end the match more easily.”
The victory over U23 Philippines helps U23 Vietnam move closer to the goal of defending the regional title. The opponent in the final match will be the winner of the semi-final match between U23 Thailand and U23 Indonesia./.
