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Vietnam’s football coach Park Hang-seo was very happy with his team’s performance against Jordan. The team kept their Asian Cup dream alive by beating Jordan in a penalty shootout at the end of an intense match.
Jordan scored first but Vietnam equalized and dominated the second half, taking the game to extra time and penalties.
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Head coach Park gives instructions to the players in the match. Photo by VnExpress/Anh Khoa |
Park was very satisfied with the team’s performance and spoke about the strategy that helped Vietnam win.
"Jordan is a very strong opponent and their performance in the group stage showed that. However, my players played wonderfully today and we deserved to advance."
"We did our research on Jordan carefully. Their strength is playing long ball, so I told the players to put more pressure. I also put Huy Hung in the midfield to counter their counter attacks. In the second half we played better, but the only thing I said in halftime was making more long and accurate passes," Park said.
Goalkeeper Dang Van Lam rejoiced as the game ended. He saved a penalty in the shootout and helped Vietnam advance.
"Today is the happiest day ever. We fought our way throughout 120 minutes and won in the penalty shootout. Vietnam deserved this victory," Lam said.
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Dang Van Lam celebrates with his teammate Nguyen Phong Hong Duy after the penalty shootout. Photo by VnExpress/Anh Khoa |
Nguyen Cong Phuong, who scored the equalizer for Vietnam, thanked the fans for their immense support.
"I want to thank the fans for going to the stadium today. We will celebrate tonight and you guys should do the same," Phuong said.
Jordan coach Vital Borkelmans said Vietnam deserved to advance and Jordan were pleased to face such an opponent.
"Vietnam deserved to win. They proceed and we have to go home. We did not underestimate Vietnam at all. They are a strong team and showed great fighting spirit. It was a pleasure to face them in this game."
Vietnam will play the quarter-final on January 24 with the winner of Saudi Arabia vs. Japan match.
