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"I'm really proud of the players. They were fighting non-stop to achieve this result," the national futsal coach said after the 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Sunday night.
"Vietnam are perhaps the weakest team in this tournament. Therefore, we have to give the players a boost. For example, we let them watch some of the games against the big teams in the past, especially the Japan victory in 2016 to make them understand that the weak teams can beat stronger ones. Their mentality was improved thanks to that and they have given their best on the field to advance."
Vietnam had to get at least a draw when they faced a much stronger Czech Republic in the last game of group D to advance, as a defeat would most likely have eliminated them. In such challenging circumstances, Vietnam put on a defensive display, of which keeper Ho Van Y was the highlight with many excellent saves.
After keeping a clean sheet in the first half, Vietnam scored with only five minutes left, thanks to an effort by Chau Doan Phat. However, the Czech Republic equalized one minute later with a goal from captain Lukas Resetar. The 1-1 score remained until the end, which proved enough to send Vietnam to the next round with four points in three games.
"This was a tough match because we have to face the world’s number 15. But the players were determined to get a draw. Their spirit was amazing and I’m happy about that," Giang added.
The 40-year-old coach also complimented keeper Y’s performance.
"Van Y is the best goalkeeper of Vietnamese futsal in recent years. He couldn’t do anything in the first game because Brazil were too strong, but in the next two games (against Panama) he was excellent, becoming a solid stopper for the team," he said.
On Wednesday, Vietnam will face Russia in the round of 16.
Futsal World Cup: Vietnam 1-1 Czech Republic
