U22 Vietnam earned high praise from head coach Kim Sang Sik after a thrilling 2-0 victory over U22 Philippines in the semifinal match of the SEA Games 33 men’s football tournament.

After a long match marked by missed chances and moments of frustration, Vietnam finally broke the deadlock with two dramatic late goals from Van Thuan and Thanh Nhan. The goals sent fans into celebration and secured Vietnam’s place in the final.

Speaking after the match, Coach Kim Sang Sik expressed his pride: “We’re very happy to have defeated the Philippines today and made it to the final. I’m extremely proud of my players, who fought until the very last moment and never gave up.”

He also extended his gratitude to fans at home and in the stands. “It was thanks to this incredible support that U22 Vietnam was able to overcome difficulties and claim victory,” he said.

According to the Korean coach, both Vietnam and the Philippines played with determination and delivered a strong performance. “However, we were the luckier team today, which led to our win,” he explained. “If I had to score my players out of 100, I’d give them 100 - or even 120 - because they were excellent in every aspect, from physical preparation to mental strength and fighting spirit.”

Looking ahead to the final, Kim Sang Sik said Vietnam would give everything, regardless of who they face - either U22 Thailand or U22 Malaysia. “We [the national team] played a final here at Rajamangala Stadium in January, and now we’re back for another. It’s a wonderful feeling,” he said.

“I always tell my players: There is no mountain we cannot climb. We can become the champions. No matter the opponent, as long as we prepare well and stick to our strategy, we have what it takes to lift the trophy.”

Coach Kim also praised forward Dinh Bac for his work rate and energy. “Dinh Bac played with great effort and gave the whole team a boost,” he noted. The coach shared that he had spoken privately with the player before the match, encouraging him not to settle for his current achievements.

“Dinh Bac followed the spirit I asked of him and performed well. He has experience in the V-League, but I also told him he should challenge himself further - perhaps in Europe, Japan, or the K-League,” Kim Sang Sik added.

The final match of the SEA Games 33 men’s football tournament will take place on December 18 at Rajamangala Stadium, just two days before the closing ceremony of the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.

Dai Nam