A goal by Nguyen Tien Linh, a brace by Ha Duc Chinh and an own goal helped Park’s troops see off Cambodia with four unanswered goals on December 7 to set up a title match against Indonesia, who trounced Myanmar 4-2 in the remaining semifinal earlier on the same day.
With the victory, Vietnam continued to maintain their amazing unbeaten run in this year’s SEA Games campaign, including five wins and one draw.
“First of all, I would like to thank the players. As difficult as the match was, we overcame it with a strong fighting spirit. The players complied with discipline and tactical awareness,” Park told reporters.
“We will meet Indonesia again for the 60-year title dream. I myself and the players all understand that and will do our utmost,” he stated.
Touching on Nguyen Tien Linh’s injury, the Republic of Korea tactician said he needs to hear further report from doctors, but his feeling is that, Tien Linh’s problem was not so serious.
“He seemed unhappy when being substituted and still wanted to play. But I need to make the change for my calculations.”
Talking about Indonesia U22s, who conceded a 2-1 defeat against Vietnam in the group stage, Park said: “They are the most annoying team at the 30th SEA Games. Their players and substitutes have the same qualification. They are quite well-deserved to be in the final.”
“We clearly understand Indonesian football. We once beat Indonesia in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers as well as in the AFC U23 Championship qualifiers. In the upcoming title match, I hope Vietnam will get another win against Indonesia to grab the SEA Games gold medal,” he stated.
The final clash between Vietnam and Indonesia is scheduled to take place at the Rizal Memorial Stadium at 7pm on December 10.
