Before the confrontation with Lion City Sailors (Singapore) at 7:00 p.m. on November 16 at Thong Nhat Stadium, Ho Chi Minh City women's club showed caution but determination.
At the press conference before the match at noon on November 15, coach Nguyen Hong Pham emphasized that the home team must not be subjective in the context of the opening match always having many potential difficulties.
Our tradition is to always respect all opponents, play with effort, solidarity and determination. We cherish every match and always prepare positively. All participating teams are strong. Usually, the first match is always difficult.
For teams that lost in the opening match, they must prepare well to return strongly. Last year's lesson, when facing India and losing heavily, caused us many difficulties afterwards. Therefore, we are not subjective, we respect the other team and prepare well," coach Nguyen Hong Pham shared.
The coach also updated the force situation, saying that the whole team had enough time to recover: "Huynh Nhu and the whole team have enough time to rest. She can completely play in tomorrow's match. We enter every match with the desire to win. Hopefully the weather will be good so that both teams can contribute a good match".
Lion City Sailors showed a positive comeback after the previous loss. Goalkeeper Shakira Izairida acknowledged the challenge but affirmed that the team spirit was not affected: "After the loss, it was really disappointing, but the opponent was very strong and had competed in major tournaments. The important thing is that we keep focused and positive. Ho Chi Minh City's attack has many good players, I have to be ready for all situations."
Coach Yeong Sheau Shyan highly appreciated the opponent and emphasized Lion City's stability: "The players have regained their concentration and recovered quickly. We solve each match, respect all opponents. Whether we continue or not is not the focus at the moment. The most important thing is to play well in each match.
Evaluating the home team, she added: HCMC is a strong team, with good physical strength, high-intensity play and direct attack. We have analyzed carefully and will have a way to deal with their speed. Every match is equally important. Tomorrow we will try to get the best results".
The match against Lion City Sailors is important as HCMC wants to start well in the AFC Women's Champions League after the lesson from last season. Coach Nguyen Hong Pham's team is having a full force and enthusiasm, while the opponent from Singapore showed careful preparation and was determined to get points.
The confrontation between Ho Chi Minh City and Lion City Sailors is expected to bring a fast and fierce match at Thong Nhat Stadium.
