Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai (No 19) scored a goal in the 2-2 draw in the friendly between the national senior team and the U22 team on Sunday. — Photo webthethao.vn

In front of nearly 20,000 fans, head coach Park Hang-seo selected a strong senior team including Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Tuan Anh, Nguyen Cong Phuong, Do Hung Dung and Phan Van Duc.

The U22 team also had many notable names such as Huynh Cong Den, Bui Hoang Viet Anh and Mai Xuan Quyet.

In the 29th minute, defender Bui Hoang Viet Anh thumped home for the U22s after a goalmouth scramble following a free-kick delivery.

However, just two minutes later, Hai was fouled in the penalty area and Vu Van Thanh slotted home the penalty to equalise.

The senior team pressed ahead and got the second goal to go ahead 2-1 thanks to a sumptuous volley from Hai.

With just seven minutes to go in the second half, the U22 team levelled the scores after slopping defending from the seniors gave Ho Thanh Minh an empty net.

After the match, midfielder Hai said he was happy that the two teams put on a good show for the crowd.

"I think the most important thing after this match was what the two teams did, what they accomplished, and the two teams gave the audience a good game,” said Hai.

According to Hai, to neutralise the U22's packed defence, following the tactics of the coach was an important factor.

"My teammates and I always play with all our hearts when playing on the field, complying with the tactics from the coaching staff. Every player tried to talk to each other as much as possible, helping the teammates create space and make the right play,” Hai said.

The youngsters were pleased to have drawn with their senior team, said Den from SHB Da Nang.

"This was a difficult game for the U22 squad. Despite controlling the ball less, the whole team tried to defend the draw. After this match, the coaching staff will analyse weaknesses and point out a good defence for the team,” he said.

“For my personal goal, I will try my best to have a ticket to compete in the SEA Games 31 to be held in Vietnam,” Den added.

Earlier, the senior team beat U22 team 3-2 in the first friendly match.  VNS

National football team to play two friendlies against U22s

The Vietnam national football team will have two friendly matches with the U22 squad in preparation for competitive fixtures in 2021.