Dramatic semi-final second leg of Vietnam vs Singapore: Both leaders are cautious

Semi-final first leg, Vietnam has the advantage but…

Despite having a 2-0 lead in the semi-final first leg, coach Kim Sang-sik still believes that this is an unsafe score. “We won the first leg with a score of 2-0 and entered the final. However, the score of 2-0 is still dangerous. The Vietnamese team understands that the second leg of the semi-final will not be easy. It’s easy, so we need to prepare and anticipate all problems. We will try our best when playing at home,” coach Kim Sang-sik shared.

However, Mr. Kim affirmed that the home field will be the fulcrum for the Vietnamese team to defeat Singapore: “We have support from the fans, so we will fight like we have done to overcome difficulties. We I am a team and tried my best for this match.”

Commenting on the opponent, the Korean coach said that the Singapore team plays long balls very well, so he wants the Vietnamese team to defend well in long ball situations. “We have analyzed to understand Singapore’s attack style. Hopefully the players will be able to overcome the opponent. They kick the ball very long, so the players need to create pressure in Singapore’s half. In the leg. When I return, I will make adjustments to make the Vietnamese team stronger,” coach Kim Sang-sik concluded.

Meanwhile, coach Ogura said that he cannot estimate what percentage of his team has the ability to surprise the Vietnamese team. “I can only say that Singapore will try to have a good match,” Mr. Ogura said.

In the first leg, the Singapore team suddenly used an overwhelming attacking style of play, possessing the ball 67% compared to 33% of the Vietnamese team. However, two mistakes in the final minute of injury time made them pay the price. Striker Nguyen Xuan Son directly participated in both of these situations. However, coach Ogura did not put much emphasis on blocking Xuan Son in the second leg: “In the last match, Xuan Son only had a few clear opportunities. In general, I do not appreciate the team focusing on only one player. opponent, because the Vietnamese team also has many other powerful attacking players.”

According to the rules of the Southeast Asian Football Federation (AFF), the two AFF Cup 2024 semi-finals do not apply the away goals rule. The team that scores more goals after two rounds will win the match. Therefore, to enter the final, the Singapore team must win by 3 goals in the second leg, or by 2 goals to equalize the total score, then wait for an opportunity in extra time.