Saudi Arabian newspaper underestimates Vietnam's defensive line

By Vy Anh   November 15, 2021 | 11:49 pm PT
Saudi Arabian newspaper underestimates Vietnam's defensive line
Saudi Arabia players (in white) play Vietnam in the World Cup qualifiers on September 2, 2021. Photo by Asian Football Confederation
The backline of Vietnam cannot maintain concentration throughout the match and often crumbles in the second half, Saudi Arabian newspaper Arriyadiyah says.

"Vietnam usually have problems in the second half and that has shown in the results. In their 11 conceded goals, eight were in the second half. Last time, Vietnam scored early but messed up in the second half and lost 1-3," it said, referring to Vietnam's loss to Saudi Arabia in the first leg in September.

"The defensive line of Vietnam are the worst in the group with 11 goals conceded. In addition, their attackers were also not effective."

Vietnam and Japan scored the least goals in the group, with four each.

The newspaper also highlighted midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai, who they considered the most dangerous player in Vietnam team.

"The first goals in the second and final round of World Cup qualifiers were all scored by one man: Quang Hai. The most prominent midfielder in Vietnam scored against Malaysia in the second round and Saudi Arabia in the final round. The 24-year-old creative playmaker represents the current generation of players in Vietnam, named among the top 20 best Asian players in 2018 and 2019," it wrote.

Vietnam are expected to have a challenging game at home ground My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi when they take on Saudi Arabia, who are topping group B with 13 points.

According to German football site Transfermarkt, the total value of the Saudi Arabia national team is $27.6 million while Vietnam are valued at $5.21 million.

The game will kick off at 7 p.m. and will be reported live on VnExpress International.

 
 
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