>>> Vietnam squander one-goal lead, lose 1-3 to Saudi Arabia
Vietnam enjoyed a flying start as Nguyen Quang Hai earned them an early lead after only three minutes with a left footed shot from outside the box into the bottom right corner of the net. However, three second-half goals by Salem Al Dawsari, Saleh Al Shehri and Yaseer Al Shahran helped Saudi Arabia complete a stunning comeback for the full three points.
“We were unlucky conceding two goals from the spot. Then we suffered a numerical inferiority, which drove us to technical inferiority. Of course, the result is unchangeable. I think without Saudi Arabia’s numerical superiority, the score could have been 3-2,” Park told reporters during a post-match press briefing.
Despite failing to surprise continental powerhouses Saudi Arabia, who have progressed to five of the past seven World Cups, the Republic of Korea coach praised the resilient fighting spirit of his players.
“I think the players gave their best today. Conceding two penalty goals was also part of our tactical shortcomings. We will continue to improve that in the time ahead.”
“Next up for us is a home clash against Australia, a seeded team even higher rated than Saudi Arabia. Playing on home field, we will continue to do our best,” Park said.
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After the first matchday, Australia are temporarily leading the Group B standings following their 3-0 rout of China, with Saudi Arabia and Oman in second and third place, respectively, on goal difference.
The Vietnamese team will fly home today on a Bamboo Airways flight. After entry, all team members will participate in a “closed bubble” to prepare for their next match against Australia at My Dinh National Stadium (Hanoi) on September 7.
