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"Firstly, I want to congratulate Saudi Arabia for making it to the semifinals," he said after the game.
"This is my first tournament here and I really appreciate my players," Gong said after the match in Uzbekistan's Lokomotiv Stadium.
Going up against a much stronger Saudi Arabia, Vietnam made a great start in the first half, creating a number of scoring chances. However, they could not convert any of them.
Gong said: "We prepared to face a strong opponent and showed our determination to not give up. Thank you to the players who fought and gave their best. I'm sure my players will be more mature in the next year or two."
Vietnam were down to 10 men from the 77th minute when keeper Quan Van Chuan received a red card.
But even then, Gong kept his cool.
"When Saudi Arabia were leading 2-0, I still stayed calm. I told the players not to give up and try their best. And indeed they put up a good fight.
"I'm sorry Vietnam could not play any better in this game. I hope the players will quickly forget about this defeat and continue their great form at the club level for a better future."
Highlights: Vietnam 0-2 Saudi Arabia
