Park Hang-seo lauds Vietnamese players’ efforts against the Philippines

Vietnam coach Park Hang-seo extended thanks to all his players for their praiseworthy efforts during the entire 90 minutes against the Philippines on December 2, while addressing a press briefing held shortly after the 2018 AFF Cup semifinal first leg concluded at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod.

Vietnam coach Park Hang-seo speaks at the press briefing after the AFF Cup semifinal first leg in Bacolod on Dec. 2.
Vietnam coach Park Hang-seo speaks at the press briefing after the AFF Cup semifinal first leg in Bacolod on Dec. 2.

* Vietnam edge past the Philippines in AFF Cup semifinal first leg

“First of all, I would like to thank the players for having fought unceasingly throughout the match. I speak highly of their attempts in our victory today. We have created a big psychological advantage ahead of the second leg at Hanoi’s My Dinh National Stadium,” Park said.

Regardless of the win, the Republic of Korea tactician affirmed that his side will continue to exert greater efforts in preparation for the upcoming home-field clash. “We have analysed the opponents well. Despite many opportunities missed in today’s game, I believe my players will score additional goals in the return leg”.

Commenting on midfielder Phan Van Duc, Park stated that “Van Duc elected as the best player of the match is quite deserved. He played well and scored a decisive goal that determined our away triumph”.

Satisfied as he was with the result of the match, the 59-year-old coach noted that it was not a perfect game for his side as they conceded their first goal since the beginning of the tournament. “We will have to review what happened today and make thorough preparations for the second leg, scheduled in three days’ time,” he said.

Philippines coach Sven-Goran Eriksson speaks at the press conference.

Addressing the press briefing, Philippines coach Sven-Goran Eriksson gave high appreciation to Park’s troops. “Undoubtedly, we were faced with the toughest opponents so far in this year’s competition. I could not be happy with the result as the Philippines were beaten”.

Despite his disappointment, the Swedish tactician still expressed hopes that his side will create a miracle in Hanoi to reverse the situation, which, however, will be an extremely difficult mission. “Remember that we have yet to be eliminated from the 2018 AFF Cup, and there is still a semifinal second leg ahead,” he said.

The door to the 2018 AFF Cup final has been widely open to Vietnam following their convincing 2-1 victory over the Philippines in Bacolod on December 2. Park’s side will only need a draw while receiving Eriksson’s troops in Hanoi this Thursday in order to book their place in the title match.