* Malaysia 2-2 Vietnam: Park’s side seize advantage into return fixture
Vietnam enjoyed a brilliant start to the game with a 2-0 lead in the first 25 minutes, thanks to goals by Huy Hung and Duc Huy. In the remainder, the “Golden Stars” created many clear-cut opportunities to score, which, however, were squandered by the strikers. Meanwhile, Malaysia made good use of their rare chances to manage a 2-2 tie on home ground.
There is no doubt that the stalemate left deep regrets among both the Vietnamese players and fans, but scoring twice away has also gifted Park’s side an upper hand ahead of the return fixture, as they will only need a 0-0 or 1-1 tie at Hanoi’s My Dinh Stadium this weekend to lift the overall trophy.
Addressing the post-match press briefing, Park Hang-seo admitted that he was a little bit “disappointed” at the players’ waste of opportunities. “Of course, my players played a good game today and fought to the best of their abilities. We were two goals ahead but then conceded another two. I am a little bit disappointed by the result as we missed many chances”.
Nonetheless, the Republic of Korea tactician stated that scoring two away goals is also a big advantage for Vietnam ahead of the final return fixture at My Dinh on Dec 15. “Vietnam are currently on the upper hand by scoring two away goals. We will have opportunities when returning to My Dinh. Anyway, the game went in accordance with my calculations”.
Park also warned his players to remain conscious and avoid fouls in front of the penalty area, which forced them to concede twice at Bukit Jalil. He affirmed that he will join the Vietnamese players to overcome weaknesses in the finishing ability of strikers. “I will address this issue in the return fixture in Hanoi. Anyway, everything still remains under our control”.
Malaysian players (in yellow) had a good match on their home ground.
Malaysia coach Tan Cheng Hoe said the 2-2 draw was not too bad for his side, affirming that he and his players would exert greater efforts while playing guest at My Dinh Stadium this Saturday. “There remains a match in Hanoi to decide the title winners. I think we still have the chance if the players perform well and maintain their calm”.
Talking about the display of the home side at Bukit Jalil Stadium on Tuesday, Tan Cheng Hoe said: “My players played a brilliant match. We did not lose our fighting spirit despite trailing by two goals, and successfully equalised the score. The players complied with my tactics”.
The 50-year-old tactician also paid tribute to Malaysian fans for their crazy support at Bukit Jalil yesterday. “I am happy with the enthusiasm of home supporters in attendance. It was a motivation but also the pressure for my players. Anyway, the result was acceptable”.