Malaysian media: 'Malaysia will find it difficult to beat Vietnam'

Most Malaysian reporters working in Myanmar believe it will be very difficult for Malaysia to beat Vietnam in the match taking place at 3:30 PM today (November 23rd) at the AFF Suzuki Cup 2016.

Editor Mohd Rais (TV3 channel): 1-1 draw

Editor Mohd Rais. Photo: NK

Vietnam had a smooth start while Malaysia remained mired in worries after their hard-fought victory against Cambodia. Although the media were surprised by Cambodia's progress, the win by coach Ong Kim Swee's team didn't truly satisfy us in terms of their playing style.

Accordingly, the Malaysian defense showed many weaknesses against Cambodia. It was evident that the full-backs often pushed too far forward. For example, Matthew Davies, the Australian-born right-back, has excellent technique but is still young and prone to mistakes. Therefore, when he pushes forward, the Vietnamese players on the left wing can take advantage of this to counter-attack. As I recall, Vietnam has a very good player on that wing (Thanh Luong). In addition, the Vietnamese forward line, with Cong Vinh, is always a threat.

But that doesn't mean Malaysia should play defensively against Vietnam. In case of a tie in points, we might be at a disadvantage in terms of goal difference because we only beat Cambodia by one goal. Therefore, we really need a win in this match. In my opinion, although the Vietnamese team is stronger than Malaysia, Coach Ong Kim Swee's players should still play offensively. I predict a 1-1 draw.

Reporter Vijhay Vick (FourFourTwo magazine): Vietnam has more opportunities.

Reporter Vijhay Vick. Photo: NK

I watched Vietnam's victory over Myanmar and was very impressed with their performance. Myanmar was the home team, with a significant advantage from the home crowd. When they equalized, I thought Vietnam would struggle to hold on because Myanmar's morale was high, and they launched a relentless attack. But then Vietnam still managed to score and win. This demonstrates the seasoned resilience of the Vietnamese players, and facing such opponents is always very difficult.

Meanwhile, Malaysia has many newcomers in the 2016 AFF Cup. Although they are eager to play and prove themselves, experience remains a weakness for this young team. I think, in terms of spirit, the Malaysian players performed very well against Cambodia. However, they have much to improve in terms of organizing their play. Malaysia should probably play a more defensive counter-attacking game because Vietnam, with their technically gifted midfielders, especially player number 14 (Xuan Truong), are stronger than us in terms of ball control. I think Vietnam will win if they continue to show the same form as they did against Myanmar.

According to TTO