Despite Loss to US, Vietnam Welcomes World Cup Debut

Vietnam was one of eight debutantes in an expanded World Cup field in New Zealand and Australia. The team entered the tournament with modest expectations, aiming to make their mark on the international football stage and represent their country.

Duc Chung, who had likened the formidable United States team to a “formidable mountain” leading up to Saturday’s match, expressed satisfaction with his team’s commendable performance in the face of the unyielding American offense.

“We made a concerted effort to hinder the offensive efforts of the U.S. team. We strategized and devised defensive tactics to counter their attacks,” he stated, with the aid of a translator. “Regarding our team’s morale and determination, we are extremely content with our performance today.”

He commended his goalkeeper, Tran Thi Kim Thanh, for her exceptional performance, as she consistently worked hard to defend against the opposing team’s advances and prevent them from entering the final third of the field.

Jul 22, 2023; Auckland, NZL; USA forward Sophia Smith (11) scores a goal past Vietnam goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh (14) in the first half of a group stage match in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup at Eden Park. Photo: Reuters

Jul 22, 2023; Auckland, NZL; USA forward Sophia Smith (11) scores a goal past Vietnam goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh (14) in the first half of a group stage match in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at Eden Park. Photo: Reuters

During the first half, she made an impressive save on a penalty shot by U.S. veteran Alex Morgan. This remarkable stop was a result of countless hours of preparation, as acknowledged by Duc Chung.

“This was a valuable lesson for us to gain experience from,” stated Duc Chung. “I am extremely pleased with the performance of our goalkeeper.”

The upcoming match between Vietnam and Portugal is scheduled for Thursday in Hamilton.

Jul 22, 2023; Auckland, NZL; USA forward Sophia Smith (11) celebrates with teammates after scoring her second goal against Vietnam in the first half of a group stage match in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup at Eden Park. Photo: Reuters

Jul 22, 2023; Auckland, NZL; USA forward Sophia Smith (11) celebrates with teammates after scoring her second goal against Vietnam in the first half of a group stage match in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at Eden Park. Photo: Reuters

The post Despite Loss to US, Vietnam Welcomes World Cup Debut appeared first on Vietexplorer.com.

View more from VietExplorer:

Young Vietnamese offer free ‘banh mi’ to Da Nang’s needy
Experience Vietnamese traditional Lunar New Year at Thang Long Imperial Citadel
Winners of literary and artistic campaign in celebration of 1010th anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi announced
Hundreds of gift sets handed over to poor residents, children in Dak Nong
Draft Documents for 13th National Party Congress Carefully Prepped
The harmony between traditional music and jazz
Congress to create new momentum for Vietnam: Ambassador
Vietnam and ASEAN countries overcome challenges towards better future
Congress delegates pay tribute to President Ho Chi Minh
Delicious dining at a snail’s pace
HCM City to pedestrianise Turtle Lake area
Ancient world heritage citadel of Vietnam spoilt by natural disasters
Opening of National Party Congress Begins in Hanoi
Vietnamese tighten belts amid economic fallout from COVID-19
Pho hong, a must-try dish in Bac Ha
Beach tours to be top choice for Tet
Vietnamese pin high hopes on 13th National Party Congress
13th National Congress of Communist Party of Vietnam opens
Lao ambassador hails leadership of Communist Party of Vietnam
Vietnam ranked 89th among world’s best visa-free passports 2021

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Young individuals in traditional attire captivate foreigners’ attention in Hanoi

Phu Quoc to host “Fashion Voyage #5” show in April

Da Lat Flower Festival 2022 to last for two months