Coach Philippe Troussier: The two teams Vietnam and China are struggling to find their way to the world

Speaking at a press conference before the friendly match, coach Philippe Troussier said:

"It is difficult to compare Vietnamese and Chinese football. Both teams are struggling to find their way to the world. Personally, I think that the football level of the two countries is at the same level, neither side is too superior.

I have worked in Japan, China and now in Vietnam. Vietnamese players have potential, but the problem of Vietnamese football is that most of the players are playing domestically. The players do not know how high their potential can reach."

Evaluating his opponent, the French coach said: "I am very happy to return to China. In the past, I spent 6 years working here. I know this country quite well.

The Chinese team has not been able to participate in the World Cup since 2002. We know that many Chinese people are also hoping that the team can return to the World Cup.

Chinese football has many good players. They are improving step by step. I believe that Chinese football will soon return to the World Cup arena."

Meanwhile, talking about the possibility of Vietnam participating in the World Cup, Mr. Troussier admitted the difficulties: "I have a dream that, after useful friendly matches like this, I can join the Vietnam team to participate in the World Cup in the future. Currently, when looking at the ranking of the Vietnam team, I think that is not enough. To win a ticket to the World Cup, the Vietnam team must be in the top 8 in Asia."

"We have prepared carefully for the match against China, my players are ready to face the huge challenge ahead in this match. No matter what the result is, we will still steadfastly pursue our goals," the French coach affirmed.

Center-back Que Ngoc Hai expressed his determination: "The two teams met in the third qualifying round of the 2022 World Cup. Now everything has changed a lot. Tomorrow's match is also part of the two teams' journey towards the 2026 World Cup. I hope the Vietnamese team gets the best results."

The friendly match between Vietnam and China will take place at 6:35 p.m. on October 10 in Dalian, China./.