>>> Park pleased with players after commanding win against Indonesia in World Cup qualifiers
>>> World Cup qualifiers: Regional media praises Vietnam for emphatic win over Indonesia
The win helps Vietnam further tighten their grip at the top of the group with 14 points, two ahead of their closest rivals, the UAE.
This was a successful match for coach Park Hang-seo’s side, as the Vietnamese team did not concede. After six matches, the Golden Stars have only conceded one goal, against Indonesia in the first leg. That is what makes FIFA very impressed regarding the Vietnamese team's defensive line.
“Vietnam (14 points) are hanging on to a two-point lead over United Arab Emirates (12) after the former cruised past Indonesia 4-0 and the latter defeated Thailand 3-1,” FIFA noted on its homepage.
Group G promises a two-horse race between the Vietnamese team and hosts UAE. Whoever among them wins the head-to-head match on June 15 in Dubai will most likely win the group.
“Vietnam will be encouraged by their defensive record - five clean sheets in their last six qualifiers,” FIFA said, while praising the UAE for their attacking attitude. Coach Bert van Marwijk's men have now scored 17 goals in their last four matches across all competitions.
After collecting three points from the match against Indonesia, Vietnam continue to lead Group G with 14 points, two ahead of the UAE. In the next match, coach Park’s troops will face familiar foes Malaysia (on Friday).
This is also another important match for the Vietnamese team. Unfortunately, Park will not have the service of key midfielder Quang Hai because of suspension, while striker Van Toan and impressive midfielder Tuan Anh are unlikely to feature after suffering their injuries in the latest match.
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The Vietnamese team are still firmly at the top of Group G with an undefeated record after six matches played. (Photo: AFC)
