Action from the March 19 international friendly between Vietnam and Cambodia. FFC
The Cambodian national team have yet to break their losing streak against Vietnam after suffering a 2-1 defeat in last night’s international friendly at Go Dau Stadium.
Hosts Vietnam were the first to score, with the opening goal coming from a beautifully executed free kick by Hai Long in the 26th minute. Defender Van Vi doubled the lead with a strike in the 35th minute.
Young forward Bong Samuel of Phnom Penh Crown pulled one back for Cambodia in the 64th minute with a stunning long-range shot, following an earlier attempt by forward Sor Rotana in the 61st minute that was deflected in front of goal.
Despite securing a win, Vietnam head coach Kim Sang-sik was unimpressed with the 2-1 result.
“In the first half, we maintained a stable playing style, and our starting lineup executed the game plan as prepared,” he told a post-match press conference.
“But in the second half, we faced some difficulties with our substitutions, and some replacement players did not meet expectations. This allowed Cambodia to create scoring opportunities,” he added.
“To be honest, I am not completely happy with this result,” he told reporters.
The Kouprey were unable to break their losing streak against Vietnam, but narrowed the gap to just 2-1. FFC
Cambodia’s Japanese head coach Koji Gyotoku has mixed feelings about his team’s showing.
“Our players performed well in the second half. Compared to Vietnam, they were more composed and played with greater caution. In terms of the result, I am not very happy, but I am not totally disappointed with Cambodia’s performance either,” he said.
“In the first half, we did not play very well, especially in midfield, where we struggled to maintain possession. This is something I will review and discuss with the players to address these shortcomings,” he added.
The Kouprey – as the Cambodian national side are known – will now return home and prepare for another international friendly against South American side Aruba.
The Aruba national team touched down in Cambodia on Wednesday, March 19. They are set to play a friendly against Visakha FC at Prince Stadium this Saturday, before facing Cambodia at the National Olympic Stadium on March 25.
