VTV-T&T Cup: Fast running Vietnam draws greater build Aussie

Playing physically dominant throughout the match, Australian Under-23 squad have not managed to score a goal as Vietnamese players gave their visitors little space to work with the ball.

Vietnamese team, playing with only one change from starting line-up because playmaker Phan Van Tai Em was left out after lackluster performance in the first match against U23 Uzbekistan. Hoang Thuong was called up to take his place, playing central fielder in the first half.

Taking full advantage of their taller and stronger players, Australian Under 23 team played fast, long and high ball in the first 30 minutes of the first half, hoping to score an opener so they could play the game their own pace.                       

However, the Spressing⬝ style of play only made it hard for Vietnamese defenders to keep Australian strikers out of the box. Lack of skilful finishes and a little bit of luck sent the ball off the net.

Vietnamese players were more dangerous after the break with Cong Vinh (9) creating a number of chances but none of these chances were converted into goals. As Hoang Thuong was replaced by more experienced Hong Minh in the second half, Vietnam were more confident in their defending and created a number of chances. However, the result after the final whistle was still 0-0.

Assistant coach Mai Duc Chung said after the match that the Australian had created a lot of pressure on the whole team. He added that the Vietnamese play better in the second half and if the team were better prepared, the result could have been totally different.

Australian assistant coach praised Le Cong Vinh for his threatening presence in the defending line of Australia, saying he was surprised at the quality of football and the playing style of Vietnamese players.

Goalkeeper Quang Huy was voted player of the match, for his blocking and saves throughout the game.

Vietnam will play Iranian Under 23 on April 20 while Australian will play Uzbekistan, who was last in the round-robin after today”s 2-0 lost to Iranian Under-23 team in the match played earlier in the afternoon.

By Tuan Phu (Nhandan)