Vietnam have grown since Phuket: Calisto

BANGKOK (23 Dec 2008) – Vietnam national coach Henrique Calisto feels that his team has grown since the defeat they suffered against Thailand in the first game of Group B of the Suzuki Cup 2008 at the Surakul Stadium in Phuket early this month. 

Vietnam national coach Henrique Calisto

Due to renew their clash tomorrow night at the Stadium Rajamangala in the first leg final of the biennial tournament this year, Calisto added that the team’s confidence stems from the fact that they have improved from one game to another.

Since losing to Thailand 2-0 that eventful afternoon, Vietnam have not looked back since where they have gone on to chalk memorable wins over Malaysia and then dumping defending champions Singapore from the final two.

“The team have certainly grown where they now play under less pressure and are more confident,” said Calisto.

“I believe that people should forget about past records (like the loss to Thailand in Phuket) or the win over Singapore two days ago. Singapore were unbeaten in 22 games and we beat them at home.

“We have to choose the best way how we can beat Thailand tomorrow.”

Calisto added that Thailand presents a different game and a different style from the rest of the competition where they will start as the favourites since they are playing at home.

He said that Thailand are in confident mood at the moment after winning all five matches in the competition thus far and where they have conceded just one goal as against scoring 14 goals.

“If there is anything which I’m worried about at the moment is the recovery period of my players,” added Calisto.

“They had two tough games against Singapore and with the change in weather from the cold inHanoi to the warmth of Singapore, there are bound to be some adjustment issues.”

Calisto said that as far as who will replace defender Doan Viet Cuong – who has been suspended for a red card offence in the match against Singapore – he has some ideas although he will only reveal them tomorrow.