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After four losses, ten goals conceded and only four goals scored so far in the final round of World Cup qualifiers, Vietnam will play their next match with Japan on Nov. 11.
"Japan are very strong. But we are playing at home and hopefully there will be many spectators to support us. (Fan support) will be a big motivation for us. We will play against first Japan then Saudi Arabia and will be trying to get our first points. I hope we can achieve our targets and meet fan expectations," Hai told FIFA.
Hai has been an irreplaceable player in coach Park Hang-seo's squad. In the second round of World Cup qualifiers, he scored two crucial goals to help Vietnam advance. Hai is also the first player to score for Vietnam in the final round with a beautiful strike during the clash with Saudi Arabia.
"While playing strong teams, I only think of completing my mission and focus on how to do my best to help my teammates and get a good result," the 24-year-old midfielder said.
He also recalled the game with China, where Vietnam almost grabbed their first point but lost in the final minute.
"We had prepared very well for this match. We entered the game determined to get a good result even after suffering two opening losses. We started in high spirits, pressing hard throughout but it ended with us failing to achieve a draw. After the match, we knew we had much work to do while our journey ahead remains long. My teammates and I have set specific targets for this campaign and will certainly gain experiences from each game," Hai said.
Although Vietnam are pointless and standing last in the group, Hai believes good results would eventually come.
"Despite failing to get good results so far, we still need to keep up our spirits. The most important thing for us is to maintain our resolve to live up to our expectations."
After the game with Japan at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi, Vietnam will face Saudi Arabia again there on Nov. 16. Both games will be reported live on VnExpress International.
