Vietnam coach wanted his player sent off in AFF U23 match with Philippines for scuffle

Nguyen Van Truong (number 7) pushes a Filipino player during an AFF U23 match between Vietnam and the Philippines on Aug. 22, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Lam Thoa

After winning the match and qualifying for the semifinals in Rayong, Thailand Tuesday night, he began the post-match press conference sensationally: "I'm not happy. This is a forgettable match.

I told the referee that I wanted Nguyen Van Truong sent off immediately. I don't support his act one bit. That was not football. Football is playing, not fighting."

In the 82nd minute Truong was tackled from behind by Justin Faris and lost his cool. The two got into a scuffle and other players had to break them up. The referee gave both a yellow card.

The referee intervenes as Vietnam and Philippines players break up a fight between Nguyen Van Truong and Justin Faris in an AFF U23 match on Aug. 22, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Lam Thoa

During additional time Truong continued to clash with Faris, but was lucky not to get a second yellow.

Tuan threw his water bottle on the ground in frustration and screamed for his players to keep their cool even if opponents made hard tackles on them.

"Although we won and advanced to the semifinals, nothing is memorable about this match. There were too many unnecessary heated moments in the second half and I don't like that at all."

 

 

Vietnam coach wanted his player sent off in AFF U23 match with Philippines for scuffle

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Vietnam had only needed a draw to take top spot in group C and advance.

Even a two-goal loss would not have precluded their entry into the semifinals.

This meant Tuan had the luxury of making eight changes to the lineup that thrashed Laos 4-1.

Despite playing mostly with their reserve players, Vietnam dominated the Philippines and won thanks to a goal by midfielder Nguyen Huu Tuan in the 18th minute.

"I used five U18 players. They are still young and inexperienced, and I wanted to give them a chance to play and develop."

Coach Hoang Anh Tuan expresses his dissatisfaction during the press conference after the AFF U23 match between Vietnam and the Philippines on Aug. 22, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Lam Thoa

Goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan did not come under much pressure, but still made several errors that almost led to conceding goals.

But Tuan did not blame him, saying his performance was not bad and his lack of playing time at Hanoi FC accounted for the errors.

"He will gradually get better. I hope he will perform well in upcoming matches."

In the semifinal Vietnam will play group B winners Malaysia on Thursday.

"Malaysia are a strong team. But the important thing is how my players perform."