Vietnamese men’s futsal is determined to win gold at SEA Games 31

* How is the preparation of the Vietnamese futsal team for the 31st SEA Games?

– Coach Pham Minh Giang: Up to now, everything is well prepared by the team. The weaknesses revealed in the 2022 Southeast Asian futsal tournament (AFF Cup) in terms of physical strength and finishing have been gradually overcome by the coaching staff for the students. The whole team still has a training tour in Thailand, starting on April 29. In your country, Vietnam experienced 3 practice matches with 3 strong clubs: Thai Port (April 30), Thammasat (May 2nd) and Navy (April 4-5). They have quality foreign players from Brazil. Training in Thailand will bring many benefits to the players. Hopefully by the 31st SEA Games, Vietnam will play well.

Compared to AFF Cup 2022, the coaching staff called more Tu Minh Quang, Tuan Thanh and Anh Vu. Those are the young people, bringing enthusiasm and competition to this gathering. Therefore, every training session is of high quality. I think if you practice well and ensure your expertise, you will have a chance to attend the 31st SEA Games.

In general, the whole team still has a training trip in Thailand. Those who can show their ability to compete and have a strong mentality when facing foreign players will be judged.

Vietnam Futsal Golden Ball 2021 Ho Van Y continues to be the solid fulcrum of the team

* Finished winning tickets to the Asian finals, but Vietnam’s performance in the AFF Cup 2022 was not really good. What is the cause?

– The ticket to the final round of the Asian Futsal Championship is a worthy reward for our efforts. However, during the preparation of the AFF Cup 2022, the whole team faced many difficulties. If anyone is watching, the fitness of the whole team is not good. This all comes from the fact that one of the players got sick, leading to poor fitness and poor performance. But preparing for the 31st SEA Games, the players’ physical foundation is much better and everything is still on the right track.

Importantly after the AFF Cup 2022, when we look back, what are the strengths and weaknesses? See how competitors in the area are playing and improve accordingly. I also took Vietnam to attend the AFF Cup for the first time, so I also learned many lessons and experiences to improve tactics and adapt on the playing field.

* At AFF Cup 2022, Thailand is still the champion. Indonesia thrived, but Myanmar made Vietnam work hard to win the 3rd place match. How do you assess Vietnam’s chances of competing for a medal at the 31st SEA Games?

– The Myanmar Football Federation has a large investment in futsal. They hire a foreign coach. The players train hard. Just look at the opponent’s physical background in the 2 matches against Vietnam to know. In addition, Myanmar’s spirit is very good, especially when facing a team that has reached the 1/8 round of the Futsal World Cup twice in a row. Teams “under the door” like Myanmar, when entering the field, always play with the spirit of rolling, giving their best. As for Vietnam, the upper gate was forced to attack but could not take advantage of the opportunities, so it was in an extremely difficult game.

Indonesian players are much more stubborn. First, the Indonesian National League system has foreign players. When clashing with foreign soldiers, the internal soldiers learn and increase their bravery. When playing internationally they will see that as normal. Proof that the Thai audience shouted and did all sorts of things, but the Indonesian players were not afraid. In addition to many foreign coaches coming to Indonesia, they should help players access new knowledge.

As for Thailand, I think through the 2022 AFF Cup semi-final, the gap between the two teams has become closer. But it is important to encounter Thai people, the players are full of bravery and confidence. But really, I’m still not satisfied with some things. If you played better, the whole team would have a good result. Especially in terms of physical weakness and the ability to take advantage of opportunities is not good.

Coach Pham Minh Giang and his students are comfortable before the 31st SEA Games

* How will the final ranking affect the race?

– Every match is a final. Should make good use of it when confronting each opponent directly. Only then can we think of our goal of winning a gold medal at the 31st SEA Games. I know it’s very difficult, but now the whole team is practicing very well, overcoming the weaknesses in the AFF Cup. I think Vietnam will have better results in the upcoming home tournament.

* What do you think about playing at home at SEA Games 31?

I think this has two sides. If the Vietnamese players play well, the power will be multiplied when they are accompanied and cheered by the fans. Otherwise, you have to accept the opposite direction as pressure. I hope the team will receive support from the home audience. When everyone is behind, the players on the field will play confidently, bringing explosive matches with good results.

I think, competing in Vietnam will be more comfortable. Especially now that the Covid-19 epidemic situation is under control, it is easier to replace players if there is a case of Covid-19 on the team.

* Thank you for the discussion!