The Vietnam U22 team may change their competition venue at the SEA Games 33.
Flooding in Songkhla has prompted Thailand to consider changing venues; Group B teams may move to Bangkok or Rangsit, benefiting Vietnam U22 in terms of travel but raising concerns about logistics and traffic congestion.
The Vietnam U22 team faces the possibility of having to leave Songkhla to play their Group B matches in the men's football tournament at the 33rd SEA Games due to flooding causing unstable weather and infrastructure. According to sources, host nation Thailand is almost certain to move the events held in Songkhla; it is highly likely that Vietnam U22, along with Laos and Malaysia, will play in Bangkok or Rangsit (a location near Bangkok). This sudden change presents both advantages and logistical challenges for Coach Kim Sang Sik's team.
Why can the location be changed?
Thailand's Songkhla province is currently severely affected by heavy rains and flooding, leading to unstable weather and infrastructure. Although the tournament hasn't started yet, to allow sufficient preparation time, host nation Thailand will almost certainly have to change the venue for the events scheduled in Songkhla, including Group B of the men's football tournament.
Advantages of playing in Bangkok or Rangsit
- Facilitating opponent research: The Vietnam U22 team will be stationed near the teams in Group A, including host nation Thailand, making it easier for the coaching staff to monitor and analyze their opponents.
- A more convenient option: There are direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok. This reduces the burden compared to the previously planned option of connecting to Hat Yai (Songkhla).
Disadvantages to consider
- The preparation plan is at risk of falling apart: The Vietnam U22 team had meticulously prepared for their training camp and matches in Songkhla. A sudden move to another city could jeopardize logistical arrangements.
- Traffic: Bangkok is frequently congested, which can affect the team's travel schedule, daily routines, and recovery.
Travel schedule and impact
Initially, according to the plan, coach Kim Sang Sik and his team would depart from Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) to Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok), then take a connecting flight in the afternoon to Hat Yai Airport, Songkhla – a rather arduous journey. If Group B is moved to Bangkok or Rangsit, the Vietnam U22 team could shorten the journey and reduce the time spent on connecting flights.
Second change to Table B?
Previously, there were reports that Group B would be played in Chiangmai, but this was later moved to Songkhla. If Bangkok or Rangsit is chosen, this could be the second time the venue for Group B has changed ahead of the 33rd SEA Games.
Competitor background and related information
Being stationed near Group A (which includes host nation Thailand) allows for closer monitoring of potential opponents. Regarding the overall picture of the tournament, the Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports has only set a target of winning a silver medal in men's football at the 33rd SEA Games.
The key point
The possibility of changing the venue for Group B from Songkhla to Bangkok or Rangsit would both facilitate travel and present logistical challenges and require adaptation within a short timeframe. The final decision from the host country will shape the entire preparation plan for the Vietnam U22 team for the SEA Games 33.
