Vietnam earned a 2-0 victory against Laos in their opening game on April 30, but their performance was far from convincing. They opened the score early in the 2nd minute, but struggled to widen the gap and only managed to do so during the extra time of the second half, after almost conceding.
Coach Philippe Troussier said the win was a huge morale boost for the team after a friendly losing streak, and hopefully the team have put the pressure past them, and they can now play much better.
Vietnamese players at their SEA Games 22 match against Laos, April 30, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Lam Thoa |
Winning against Singapore will take Vietnam to the top of group B, a huge advantage for the defending champion before playing two more difficult matches against Malaysia and Thailand.
Singapore lost 1-3 to Thailand in their opening game. Coach Philippe Aw said that his team did not adapt well to the field and weather in Cambodia, and they would play the second match much better.
One point is enough for Singapore to hope for a semi-final spot when there are regular rival Malaysia and a more equal opponent in Laos up ahead.