Coach Philippe Troussier: 'I am disappointed that the Vietnamese team lost in the last seconds of the match'

On the evening of November 21, the Vietnamese team hosted Iraq in the second qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup in Asia. Despite their best efforts, coach Philippe Troussier's team lost to the away team in the final seconds of the match.

Appearing disappointed in the post-match press conference, coach Philippe Troussier said: "It's clear that conceding a goal in the last minute was unfortunate. We're very disappointed. To defend without the ball against a tall opponent, we had a strategy to limit their strength as much as possible.

The last-minute loss was truly regrettable, as all the players' efforts, dedication, and determination put into the game did not yield any results. However, my players played very hard today."

"I am disappointed with the goal and the result, but not disappointed with the way we played. I am proud of all my players for playing resiliently against a top Asian opponent in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. We lost but learned lessons.

Of course, I have to admit that Vietnamese players are inferior when competing with tall players. This is the reason why we played friendly matches with teams with good physique before," said the French strategist.

Regarding the substitution decisions in matches with mostly young players, Mr. Troussier explained: "My substitution decisions are all for physical reasons. The V-League only helps players play well for 60 minutes. The quality of the playing field is also a problem, the ball bounces and fluctuates, making it difficult for players to control. Only by improving the field can we control the ball well and dominate the game.

Besides, we need to look at the bigger picture. My players and I entered the match with the goal of winning, but we also need to be in the top 2 to enter the third qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup.

Our main opponent is Indonesia, although I respect the Philippines. In this match, everyone wanted a draw and a win, but the reality was quite funny, we lost to Iraq but the Philippines also drew with Indonesia. So we still have an advantage in the group."

Regarding not using Hoang Duc in both recent matches, coach Philippe Troussier said: "In terms of midfield selection, I am satisfied with the players who played today. We tend to put individual ability above the team, with such performances, the Vietnamese team can win in Southeast Asia.

But against strong opponents like Iraq or top teams in Asia, relying on individuals is not enough. The quality of the domestic league is not high, the quality of training is not good, and there are not many players playing abroad.

What needs to be improved is better defensive organization, especially defense without the ball. Hoang Duc has not met that requirement. I think this year's Golden Ball will belong to Hoang Duc, but I want him to try harder. I always want to push him to try to practice and play better."

After two matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, coach Philippe Troussier said that young players need to be given more opportunities to play in the V-League: “Dinh Bac and Van Khang have shown their potential, positivity and enthusiasm. But their contribution to the club is limited. They need to play more. The club environment in Vietnam favors older, influential players.

I know that in Vietnam there are many young players with great potential but when they return to their clubs they have to sit on the bench. When we solve all those problems, the level of the national team will be raised.

If young Vietnamese players have potential but do not play, it will be difficult for them to develop. There is a reality in Vietnamese football, players at the age of 18, 19, even if they are as talented as Messi, are not sure to be used by coaches," the French strategist concluded./.