Former coach Doan Minh Xuong: 'Hoang Hen is not compatible with Hoang
Former coach Doan Minh Xuong pointed out problems in the Vietnamese team's squad after the 4-2 win over Pakistan at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, emphasizing the lack of strength and lack of chemistry between the players.
Former coach Doan Minh Xuong: 'Hoang Hen is not compatible with Hoang
According to Vnexpress.
Context
Former coach Doan Minh Xuong pointed out that the incompatibility between Hoang Hen and Hoang Duc could hinder the team in upcoming matches. Improving the connection between these players will be a decisive factor for the success of the Vietnamese football team in their journey to the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.
Why this is important
The 4-2 win over Pakistan not only helped the Vietnamese football team get closer to their goal at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, but also showed problems in the squad. The lack of understanding between players, especially between Hoang Hen and Hoang Duc, could affect the upcoming season and the team's ability to compete in the next matches.
Main point
- Former coach Doan Minh Xuong: 'Hoang Hen is not compatible with Hoang.
- Former coach Doan Minh Xuong pointed out problems in the Vietnamese team's squad after the 4-2 win over Pakistan at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, emphasizing the lack of strength and lack of chemistry between players.
- Former coach Doan Minh Xuong: 'Hoang Hen is not compatible with Hoang Duc' - VnExpress Sports Newspaper.
The Vietnamese team entered the final match of Group B with a self-determined attitude in the confrontation with Pakistan on the afternoon of October 2. Just a draw is enough for Vietnam to win a ticket to the third prize match. To prepare for this match, coach Kim Sang-sik made five changes compared to the previous 0-2 loss to Thailand. The replaced players include defender Pham Xuan Manh, midfielders Nguyen Hoang Duc, Do Hoang Hen, strikers Williams Minh Hoang and Nguyen Hai Long.
In the match against the opponent ranked 198th in the world, Vietnam held the ball more but had difficulty reaching the penalty area. The midfield trio of Nguyen Tai Loc, Hai Long and Williams had almost no connection, causing the team to wait until the 41st minute to have their first shot on target with Nguyen Hoang Duc's long-range shot. In stoppage time, Hoang Duc had a delicate pass for Williams Minh Hoang, but unfortunately this player's shot narrowly missed the post.
While the attackers struggled to find a goal, the defense made a serious mistake in the 31st minute. Hai Long lost the ball, and the coordination between Hoang Hen and Le Ngoc Bao gave Mohib Ullah a chance to pass goalkeeper Le Giang Patrik. Expert Doan Minh Xuong did not hesitate to comment: "Vietnam played like a chicken in the first half. Coach Kim Sang-sik made some changes but was unsuccessful. The central midfielder pair Hoang Hen and Hoang Duc really did not get along."
It is known that both Hoang Hen and Hoang Duc possess good personal technique and sharp tactical vision, but placing them together in the center of the midfield has revealed major problems, such as lack of defensive ability and fighting power. Especially in the first half, when having to share the defense task, Hoang Hen quickly lost his physical strength and was no longer able to attack effectively.
Former midfielder Nghiem Xuan Tu also expressed surprise at the players' performance, commenting: "The players look tired both mentally and physically. They enter the field with a sluggish mentality, leading to many wrong passes and inconsistent coordination."
After an unsuccessful first half, coach Kim Sang-sik made adjustments in the second half, withdrawing Tai Loc and Cao Pendant Quang Vinh from the field to bring in Nguyen Dinh Bac and Phan Tuan Tai. These changes were effective when the Vietnamese team scored four consecutive goals, including Tuan Tai's assist for Hai Long to equalize in the 50th minute and then goals from Hoang Duc and Williams.
The 4-2 victory over Pakistan not only helped Vietnam win second place in Group B with 6 points but also showed the problems that need to be overcome in the squad. Expert Doan Minh Xuong said that the lack of strength and physical condition of the players is the main reason leading to the team's unconvincing performance. He emphasized that Vietnam needs to have quality reserve players to be able to replace when necessary, and this will be a big challenge before the upcoming 2027 Asian Cup tournament.
What happens next
With this result, the Vietnamese team will prepare for the third-place match against Malaysia, where they need to improve their coordination and attack ability. Coach Kim Sang-sik will have to review tactics and formation to ensure the team can perform better in upcoming important matches at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Vietnam vs Pakistan match take place?
The Vietnam vs Pakistan match takes place on the afternoon of October 2.
What result does Vietnam need to win a ticket to the third-place match?
Vietnam only needs a draw to win a ticket to the third prize match.
Who are the substitute players in this match?
The replaced players include Pham Xuan Manh, Nguyen Hoang Duc, Do Hoang Hen, Williams Minh Hoang and Nguyen Hai Long.
How many shots on target did Vietnam have in the match?
Vietnam only had its first shot on target in the 41st minute with a long shot by Nguyen Hoang Duc.
Where is the Vietnamese team currently standing in Group B?
Information about the current position of the Vietnamese team in Group B is not mentioned in the article.
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