03:01, 03/01/2023

AFF Cup 2022: Many advantages for Vietnam in match with Myanmar

Vietnam face Myanmar in their last group stage match of AFF Cup 2022 at My Dinh Stadium at 7:30pm on January 3. 
 

Vietnam face Myanmar in their last group stage match of AFF Cup 2022 at My Dinh Stadium at 7:30pm on January 3. 
 
Based on the current results in Group B, Vietnam have many advantages in comparison with already-eliminated Myanmar. With 7 points, temporarily topping Group B after 3 matches, Vietnam are almost certain to advance to the semi-finals even if they lose to Myanmar. Vietnam are eliminated in case they lose to Myanmar with at least 7 goals, and the simultaneous match between Singapore and Malaysia ends in a draw. Under that scenario, Singapore will advance to the semi-finals as first-placed team of Group B with 8 points; Vietnam, level on 7 points but behind on goal difference with Malaysia, will fail to qualify for the semi-final round. However, this scenario is unlikely to happen because Vietnam have never lost with a large margin of score even when playing against strong opponents in Asia. 
 
 
Vietnamese players practicing for the final group stage match (Source: VFF)
Vietnamese players practicing for the final group stage match (Source: VFF)
 
Therefore, although a win will be a thank you for Vietnamese supporters, coach Park Hang Seo will have his own strategies in the match with Myanmar in order to prepare the force for the semi-finals in the best way possible. Most likely, Vietnam will travel soon after the match with Myanmar to play the next match. It is because if Vietnam win Group B first place, they will play the first leg match of the semi-finals away from home on January 6 and second leg match at home on January 9.
 
Coach Park Hang Seo also highly rates the techniques of Myanmar players. As said by coach Park, Myanmar perform well if they play with relaxed manner. However, the defense line and goalkeeper are the weakness of Myanmar, which Vietnam can take advantage to score. 
 
The fact that Vietnam are able to choose their opponents in the semi-finals, especially avoiding Thailand, is an advantage for them. This can help them have more chances for the final. However, according to coach Park, every team qualifying for the semi-finals is strong, and Vietnam have to play with high concentration to secure good results. 
 
An Nhien
Translated by H.N