Vietnam must stay focused against Thailand: coach Park

“Everybody knows Thailand are the number one contender for the AFF Cup title this year. They have a quality squad. Of course, I’m not saying they’re outstanding but I can’t deny they are a strong team. I always have respect for them,” Park told the press conference Wednesday. “For Vietnam, we will give our best. I’m not 100 percent sure, but we can win this.”

Vietnam entered the semifinals as the second-placed team in group B with 10 points like Indonesia but scored fewer goals. Meanwhile, Thailand won all four games and finished first in group A.

Under Park Hang-seo, Vietnam haven’t lost against Thailand, with two wins and two draws.

“To be honest, the previous results won’t affect the game tomorrow. For us, we have to aim for victory in every match. I can’t predict the result tomorrow but we must stay focused,” Park added.

The current coach of Thailand is Mano Polking, who coached V. League club HCMC FC this year, but parted ways with them after disappointing results.

“Polking used to coach HCMC and he knows Vietnamese players well. But we also played Thailand many times and know how they play. Therefore, there’s nothing to worry about. I have analyzed their current style of play. Compared to the last encounters, they run a lot more,” Park said.

The first leg of the semifinals will take place at 7:30 p.m. (Hanoi time) on Thursday while the second leg kicks off three days later. The games will be reported live on VnExpress International.