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Xuan Son scored to make it 5-0 in Vietnam's dominant win over Timor Leste at Chonburi, Thailand, on 24/7. Photo: Duc Dong. |
After opening their ASEAN Cup campaign with a narrow 2-1 victory over Cambodia, Singapore hosts Timor Leste today at Jalan Besar Stadium. In the pre-match press conference, coach Lee dismissed the notion that his team could achieve a dominant win similar to Kim Sang-sik's side.
'I am not concerned with the goal difference, as long as we secure a win,' coach Gavin Lee stated. 'If you watched the match between Vietnam and Timor Leste, you would see that the score does not accurately reflect the game's situation. It inflates the winning team's strength.'
In their opening Group A match on 24/7, Vietnam dominated Timor Leste, defeating them 7-0 with five goals scored in the first half. This marked Vietnam's biggest victory in 19 years, since their 9-0 win over Laos in the AFF Cup 2007.
However, coach Lee argued: 'Timor Leste created several challenges for Vietnam. They are a well-organized team and only lost due to individual quality. Timor Leste's conceded goals came in quick succession over a short period. The players lost control in crucial moments. However, that does not mean they are a weak opponent.'
In the match at Chonburi, Kim Sang-sik's players maintained 60% possession, took 22 shots, with nearly half on target, and achieved a passing accuracy of 91%. However, goalkeeper Le Giang Patrik also faced some threats, even if he did not have to make saves. Timor Leste had seven shots, including two clear opportunities. The ball also hit Vietnam's post once in the second half.
After the match, coach Ze Pedro suggested that Timor Leste defeated themselves, making three direct errors that led to the defending champions' shots, including two goals. 'These mistakes cost us, but they also showed the strength of the Vietnam national team,' he said. 'Their efficiency helped Vietnam score five goals in the first half and quickly settle the match.'
In the next round, Vietnam will play Singapore at My Dinh Stadium on the evening of 31/7.
Vy Anh
