Khang (C) told the press Wednesday that Vietnam were preparing to play their best match against Thailand, the top team of group B.
"At the moment, the mood is quite comfortable in the team because we have advanced to the semifinals early. I think Vietnam need to win so we can decide our opponent in the next round," he said.
Coach Philippe Troussier prepares equipment for the training session on Wednesday.
After three straight wins against Laos, Singapore and Malaysia, Troussier’s team have nine points, the same as Thailand.
This winning streak has helped the French coach reduce the pressure, after a string of poor results during preparation for the Games.
Fitness is an issue with Vietnam players. After the match against Thailand, the team only have one day to rest before the semifinals.
Coach Troussier will have to strike a balance between keeping key players fit for the semifinals and beating Thailand.
Vietnam, with a goal difference of +5, will need to beat Thailand (+7) if they want to take the top spot of group B. If this happens, the team will meet the second-placed team of group A Myanmar in the semifinals. If Vietnam cannot beat Thailand, they will face Indonesia, who have won all four matches in group A.
Unlike previous opponents, the match against Thailand promises to be a much tougher challenge.
Thailand have a diverse, intense and sharp playing style, and Vietnam will need to be at the top of their game to outwit them.
