Coach Troussier admits defeat at Asian Cup, promises to make up for it in March

Before leaving for home, coach Philippe Troussier spoke with the members of the Vietnamese team for about 15 minutes. The French coach quickly summarized the journey at the 2023 Asian Cup and instructed his players to focus on the next stage.

"Of course, the group that the Vietnamese team is in is very difficult. However, we must frankly admit that our goal of passing the group stage or at least winning one match was not achieved. We must admit that. We play football to aim for results," said coach Troussier.

Vietnam 2-3 Iraq

The Vietnamese team could not repeat the achievement of passing the group stage of the Asian Cup. Coach Troussier and his team lost all 3 matches against Japan, Indonesia and Iraq. According to this coach, the situation of the Vietnamese team could be very different if the team won or drew a match at the 2023 Asian Cup.

The 68-year-old coach said: "It can be said that we are unlucky. The team just needs more positive results, people will think differently. We have tried very hard, tried, and had positivity, so the failure makes everyone feel somewhat lacking.

We all know that positive results will give you confidence. Of course, we have to accept that we haven't got that yet. I always urge you that we try to do it but in the end the team loses."

Since October 2023, the Vietnamese team has played a total of 9 matches but has only won one and lost 8. The 68-year-old coach understands the pressure on him and his players. In this situation, the Vietnamese team needs to improve their performance.

"We will continue to improve and carry out the next task, which is the World Cup qualifiers," he said.

Then we will return to Vietnam. You will return to the club. We will regroup in March for the two matches against Indonesia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. We have to do something to make up for what we need in terms of results in March."

Coach Philippe Troussier wants the Vietnamese team to improve its performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. (Photo: Getty Images)

The Vietnamese team performed well against two strong teams, Japan and Iraq, but it was not enough to get any points. In the most important match - against Indonesia, Coach Troussier and his team caused great disappointment in both playing style and results.

However, the head coach of the Vietnamese team continued to encourage the players. He reiterated that the team's goal is not only to win but also to play to win, to control and overcome the opponent's pressure.

The Vietnamese team has had moments when they met the requirements - for example when scoring goals against Japan and Iraq - but must maintain and show more in the following matches.

"You guys played until the last minute. That's the spirit we need to continue to maintain. We're still on the same path. What we need is a good result," said coach Troussier. The French coach wants his players to look back at each match to learn lessons.

Phuong Mai

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