U23 Uzbekistan is the current runner-up of U23 Asia. Photo: AFC
Determination has points
In theory, U23 Vietnam is the team that is happier with the results in Group C. Obviously, meeting U23 Iraq is still a more pleasant experience than facing U23 Saudi Arabia. But it would be a big mistake if U23 Vietnam thought that they could comfortably keep their strength and lose against U23 Uzbekistan.
Through the first 2 matches, U23 Vietnam’s biggest problem is not technique or tactics but psychology of play. The players, especially the three central defenders, lost confidence when deploying the ball. Even before the lead goal and after the goal, U23 Vietnam always showed two opposite faces.
Once the mental pressure has been removed, U23 Vietnam needs to do everything possible to maintain and foster the fire of determination. If U23 Uzbekistan loses heavily, the confidence they have built will disappear again. Therefore, Mr. Hoang Anh Tuan and his students still have to compete with the highest spirit.
Hong Phuc can start in place of the suspended Van Cuong. Photo: AFC
U23 Vietnam once again has to make force majeure adjustments, Hong Phuc can play in the right wing to replace the suspended Van Cuong. But with the remaining players, Mr. Tuan will not rush to change but maintain stability for U23 Vietnam’s system.
In the second half, the Khanh Hoa strategist can do what he wants. U23 Vietnam’s goal is 1 point, but if they fail, it will not be a disaster for Van Chuan and his teammates.
Probable teams:
U23 Vietnam: Van Chuan, Van Khang, Manh Hung, Duy Cuong, Hong Phuc, Le Nguyen Hoang, Thai Son, Minh Khoa, Van Truong, Vo Nguyen Hoang, Van Tung.
U23 Uzbekistan: Nazarov, Abdirahmatov, Hamraliev, Davronov, Yuldoshev, Buriev, Holmatov; Khoshimov, Jaloliddinov, Erkinov, Norchaev.