SEA Games gold boosts Vietnam confidence ahead of World Cup: captain, coach

Vietnam won the title on Monday night with a 2-0 win against Myanmar in the final.

“The fans also have more faith in Vietnamese women’s football after this achievement,” Nhu said.

People had been skeptical about Vietnam’s ability to defend their gold medal after major changes to the squad.

They were in the same group as two tough opponents, the Philippines and Myanmar. But Nhu and her teammates conquered the challenges one at a time to win gold.

“Nothing is easy. Before the final coach Mai Duc Chung told the team we will make history if we win, and so we put in our best effort in the final and we made it.”

Huynh Nhu celebrates after scoring the opening goal for Vietnam in the SEA Games 32 women’s football against Myanmar on May 15, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Duc Dong

Vietnam are the first team to win the women’s football title in four consecutive SEA Games, a run that started in 2017.

But coach Chung himself admitted he did not think Vietnam would be able to defend their gold medal because of the slew of difficulties they faced.

“There were too many difficulties. Some players are quite old, some key players are absent due to injury and many new young players lack experience.”

But the 71-year-old is sanguine about the next games, saying the younger generation of players is promising.

“We have called up a number of young players and will continue to do so.”

Coach Mai Duc Chung holds his gold medal. Photo by VnExpress/Duc Dong

The team will now take a break before leaving on May 22 for a training trip in Europe, where they are expected to play four friendlies in preparation for the 2023 Women’s World Cup, which will be hosted in New Zealand and Australia.

“The SEA Games gold medal will create momentum for the World Cup,” Chung said.

“We are encouraged to play well and meet the expectations of the fans.”

 

 

SEA Games gold boosts Vietnam confidence ahead of World Cup: captain, coach

Nữ Việt Nam 2-0 Myanmar