Determined to win

“We’ve analyzed our opponent thoroughly and devised strategies to overcome them. Vietnam will do everything to win and lift the trophy,” Kim stated during the pre-match press conference, emphasizing the team’s unwavering focus and high morale.

Playing at Thailand’s Rajamangala Stadium, a venue where the hosts have achieved many significant victories, Kim acknowledged the challenge posed by a full-strength Thai squad.

“Every match carries pressure, but as long as our players stay focused and execute our plans, Vietnam will achieve the goal of winning and claiming the championship,” he asserted.

Building bonds with the team

After more than six months at the helm, Kim expressed his strong connection with the Vietnamese squad, describing them as family.

“Though my time with the team has been short, I’ve faced considerable pressure. However, through various training camps and especially the recent trip to South Korea before the ASEAN Cup, I’ve grown closer to the players.

We’ve eaten, slept, and worked together, and I believe this bond and understanding will lead us to the championship,” Kim shared.

Focused on the final challenge

Viewing the match against Thailand as the “Southeast Asian derby,” Kim stressed the significance of this final showdown.

“I told the players that we’ve reached the final, won the first leg, and now only one task remains - winning the championship. Vietnam came to Thailand to be crowned champions,” he said.

Despite the difficulties of playing away, Kim emphasized his team’s adaptability and resilience.

“The players have adjusted to travel, weather changes, and varying pitch conditions throughout the tournament. The humid climate in Thailand isn’t a major obstacle.

While the team is understandably fatigued after playing in Viet Tri and then traveling to Bangkok, these challenges won’t affect our determination to achieve our goal,” Kim concluded.

The highly anticipated second leg between Vietnam and Thailand kicks off at 8:00 PM on January 5 at Rajamangala Stadium.

Dai Nam