Nguyen Le Phat and Nguyen Xuan Bac are studying at Bac Ninh University of Physical Education and Sports, majoring in football coaching.
In this class, there are many players from teams participating in the V.League along with coaches and professional staff inside and outside the sports industry.
However, it is difficult for anyone to "work harder" than the U22 Vietnam national team duo. They have to arrange their schedule to match the study schedule. The school creates conditions for players in the form of "both studying and working" due to the nature of practicing and competing in professional football.
The classes during the week take place in the evening, on the two weekends, students have to study in the morning and evening. Therefore, Le Phat and Xuan Bac practice during the day and study online in the evening according to the school's program during the time participating in the SEA Games.
Early pursuit of a career in bookcasting helps players quickly accumulate knowledge, develop thinking and prepare for life after retirement. The desire to study becomes even more valuable when this comes from many young players such as Le Phat or Xuan Bac.
However, the players also understand that the 33rd SEA Games is very important and no one is distracted for any reason.
On the opening day against U22 Laos, U22 Vietnam won a thrilling victory with a score of 2-1. Nguyen Xuan Bac went through an unlucky match when he was injured and gave way to Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong. Meanwhile, Le Phat was also tested in the central midfield position.
U22 Vietnam is currently ranked second in Group B, with the same 3 points as U22 Malaysia but is inferior in the secondary index. According to regulations, only the 3 teams with the best results in the group and the second place in the group will qualify for the semi-finals of the 33rd SEA Games men's football tournament.
Therefore, in the decisive match against U22 Malaysia on December 11, coach Kim Sang-sik and his team will have to defeat their opponents to ensure their place in the next round.
