Once again, the Golden Dragons surprised the whole Asia as they came from a goal down to pull off a 1-1 draw against the West Asian opponents after 90 minutes before winning the nail-biting shoot-out, where the psychological resilience of the 2018 AFF Cup champions was demonstrated with four successful converters compared to just two by the Jordanian side.
Speaking to the media shortly after the clash concluded, Park said he was satisfied with what his players had performed throughout the match.
“We got to the last 16 very narrowly. It was really hard to get here. And then our players did not have time to rest for this game. They only got two days. So I really appreciate the work put in by our players. They did very well today”.
“I saw an article in which they criticised our team that we play quite defensively. But I don’t agree with their opinion. I proved that Vietnam could attack. I always want my players to do their best on the pitch, even when being led. Advancing to this round, no team dare to underestimate their opponents. All are strong teams. I don’t think any team are weak at the moment,” the Republic of Korea coach said.
Vietnam head coach Park Hang-seo speaks at the post-match press conference.
He did not forget to thank the faithful supporters who always accompany the journey of the Vietnamese team.
“We do not have as many supporters as Jordan today. But our players always fight with a spirit of victory. No matter how tired we are, we will still try until the last moment. I highly appreciate the support from the fans. The team played with full of courage and determination. We have had our second win at the Asian Cup and cruised into the quarterfinals. What makes me happy is that many Republic of Korean and Vietnamese reporters are present here today”.
For his part, Jordan head coach Vital Borkelmans admitted that Vietnam were the better and deserved the triumph.
“We played well in the first half with many chances created, and should have score twice. After the break, I told my players to be more cautious in the opening 20 minutes, but they still dropped their advantage. After Vietnam’s equaliser, my side played with some fear and made several mistakes”.
Borkelmans expressed his admiration for the Vietnamese team who he said achieved the victory in a convincing fashion.
“Vietnam played confidently and smoothly. Our players were scared, and their fitness was also not good. Vietnam had many players of similar names, so I do not remember well, but they are all small-shaped, young and technical players. Though I still believe that Jordan could have done better in today’s game”.
“When playing Vietnam, you suddenly realise that they have very good fitness and are very technical, each individual can create a mutation. Therefore, we do not expect an individual to change the game but wait for the whole team. Anyway, we lost, and they deserved to win and march on,” Borkelmans stated.
