In an interview before the afternoon session on December 4, Quoc Viet shared many perspectives on the opening match as well as his readiness for the next challenge.
The striker who participated in the SEA Games twice in a row said that the whole team is maintaining a positive spirit after the 2-1 victory over U22 Laos, although there is still a bit of regret at not scoring more goals.
"After yesterday's match, the team's spirit is quite good. It was a bit of a pity that we had not been able to score many goals. The coach also encouraged that the first match was always difficult, so getting 3 points was good, Quoc Viet said.
When asked about the controversial second goal, Quoc Viet said that because there was no VAR, the team only reacted based on the feeling of the situation and did not think the referee would change the decision. Luckily, the goal was finally recognized.
The player associated with the nickname "Young Championship King" assessed that the team still has many improvements, especially the ability to take advantage of opportunities. "The team created many opportunities but did not take advantage. In the second match, the whole team will try to score more goals, Quoc Viet frankly admitted.
Regarding the confrontation with U22 Malaysia, Quoc Viet expressed his confidence: "I have played many times with Malaysia so I am very confident in facing it. The goal of U22 Vietnam is definitely 3 points".
He also added about the requirements from coach Kim Sang-sik: The teacher assigned the task to try his best and take advantage of the opportunity. As a striker, you have to score. I feel a little regretful for not scoring in the first match, but I will try harder in the next match.
Returning to the afternoon session of December 4, coach Kim Sang-sik gave a lesson plan with a moderate amount of exercise. The group of players who started against U22 Laos mainly practiced recovery and relaxation of tendons, while the remaining group practiced more coordination of attack and finishing.
Midfielder Nguyen Xuan Bac, who was injured in the opening match, stayed at the hotel to practice at the gym and receive treatment. According to the team doctor, this player can return to training in the next 2-3 days.
U22 Vietnam still has a 7-day time limit before the match with U22 Malaysia (11.12). During this period, coach Kim Sang-sik and the coaching staff will continue to improve their playing style, especially their ability to handle the final situations. The whole team is united in their efforts to win to win a ticket to the semi-finals of the 33rd SEA Games Men's Football Tournament.
