Singapore coach declares defeating Vietnam in AFF Cup semi-finals
Singapore coach is confident of defeating Vietnam in the semi-finals of the AFF Cup 2024, with the strongest squad and modern tactics, promising a dramatic match.
Ahead of the 2024 AFF Cup semi-final between Singapore and Vietnam, Singapore coach Tsutomu Ogura expressed his high confidence in their ability to win against the "Golden Star Warriors". The Singapore team is currently in top form and ready to face Vietnam in the decisive match on December 26, 2024.
After a dramatic and successful group stage campaign, Singapore overcame all difficulties to qualify for the semi-finals. With 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss, Coach Ogura's team showed their ability to overcome strong opponents, despite being underrated. In particular, the 0-0 draw with Malaysia in the final match of Group A helped Singapore officially qualify for the semi-finals.
During the preparation process, the Singapore team did not suffer any serious injuries, and all players have fully recovered. Coach Ogura was excited when sharing about his team: “After the group stage, the Singapore team did not have any serious injuries. Every player has recovered and is ready, in the best condition. This could not be better for us to face the Vietnam team and win.”
The return of star Shawal Anuar, who is leading the scoring list with 4 goals at the AFF Cup 2024, has boosted Singapore's confidence. However, coach Ogura still left open the possibility of using Anuar for the full 90 minutes, because the team's playing style requires flexible changes in personnel. "Our playing style is very high intensity, and it is difficult for the 11 starting players to play the full 90 minutes. For me, each match has different factors such as the opponent's ability, the playing field, and weather conditions. Therefore, the starting lineup will always change," coach Ogura added.
With careful preparation and high spirits, the Singapore team is confident of a successful match against the Vietnam team, a team considered one of the strong candidates for the championship. The first leg of the semi-final will take place at 20:00 (equivalent to 21:00 local time) at Jalan Besar Stadium, where the weather conditions and artificial turf will be different from those in Vietnam.
Meanwhile, the Vietnamese team is also actively preparing for this match, hoping to overcome all challenges and get closer to the championship trophy. However, the Singapore team is showing that it is a formidable opponent and it will certainly not be easy for Vietnam to win.
