Weather affects Vietnam’s performance in New Zealand game: captain

Huynh Nhu (number 9) during the exhibition between New Zealand and Vietnam on July 10, 2023. Photo by AFP

At McLean Park Stadium, Napier City, Vietnam were dominated from the start and failed to create any chance for the first 30 minutes, before conceding two goals in the first half. In the second half, Vietnam did not perform any better despite making some changes, while the host continued to put immense pressure on the other side.

According to Huynh Nhu, the weather was contributed to the defeat.

"The temperature here is too contrasting compared to Vietnam so it affected us," she said. "This game is a chance for us to adapt and get used to the weather in New Zealand."

In Vietnam, Nhu and her teammates practiced in Hanoi under hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 36 degrees Celsius. Since arriving in New Zealand on July 5, the team had to deal with a complete different environment, with cold rain and temperatures ranging from 7 to 14 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, the team couldn’t even complete the training session because of heavy rain.

It was not raining on Monday, but the pitch was deemed quite slippery. The temperature at the time of the match was about 8 degrees Celsius. Many Vietnamese players slipped when they tried to sprint or defend against New Zealand players.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimkova. Photo by FIFA

New Zealand dominated the game with 60% possession and 27 shots, compared to Vietnam’s two.

"I’m really happy when my team played great football with teamwork and connection," the New Zealand coach said after the game. "I’m also satisfied as we kept a clean sheet with a solid defense."

Vietnam coach Mai Duc Chung admitted that Vietnam still have much to improve before the Women’s World Cup starts in nine days.

"The players have tried their best, but their movements are still heavy and lacked elegance. I will have to adjust so they can play faster with more agility on the ball," Chung said.

Vietnam will play one more friendly against Spain at McLean Park Stadium before entering the 2023 World Cup, which will take place for a month from July 20.