In Group B of the AFF Cup (new name is ASEAN Cup) 2024, in addition to two big opponents Indonesia and the Philippines, the Vietnamese team will face Laos in the opening match of the tournament.
The draw pitted Vietnam against Laos in the first matches. At the AFF Cup 4 years ago, Quang Hai and his teammates struggled to defeat their opponents 2-0 away. In the 2022 tournament, Vietnam "breathed easier" when they won 6-0 against the team from the land of a million elephants.
This year, the Laos team is considered an "unknown". Through the FIFA Days friendly matches, the Laos team's lineup has changed significantly compared to 2 or 4 years ago.
Except for some familiar pillars such as Bouphachan Bounkong, Phoutthasay Khochalern or Phoutthasay Khochalern, the remaining players are mostly new players born in 2000 or later. Among them, the youngest is Phousomboun Panyavong (born in 2007).
Notably, in the Lao national team, the most prominent is young striker Peeter Phanthavong (born in 2006) - who scored 13 goals in the Lao League this season. In addition, a number of other quality players are highly appreciated such as captain Bouphachan Bounkong, Photthavong Sangvilay or Anantaza Siphongphan...
Previously, last August, the Lao Football Federation appointed the new head coach of the national team, Mr. Ha Hyeok-jun (54 years old). The Korean coach used to be an assistant for the Myanmar team, so he has a certain understanding of Southeast Asian football.
Under the guidance of Mr. Ha Hyeok-jun, the Laos team has made progress in terms of expertise. The most surprising thing was that this team just held Thailand to a 1-1 draw in a friendly match during the FIFA Days last November. No one else but Bounphachan was the one who had a beautiful volley to help the home team hold their opponent.
The playing style and formation of the Laos team at this time have some similarities with Vietnam in the previous period. Coach Ha Hyeok-jun prioritizes using a 5-4-1 formation with a solid defensive strategy. The appearance of Mr. Ha also helps Laos play more disciplined and effective football.
