HANOI: Streets around Hanoi were adorned with pictures of Vietnam head coach Park Hang-seo (pic) and South Korean flags as the nation rejoiced the country’s victory in the AFF Suzuki Cup after a decade.
The former assistant to Guus Hiddink in the 2002 World Cup was lauded by the whole nation when Vietnam finished third and fourth in the AFC Under-23 Championship and Asian Games respectively.
Now, he has been hailed as a legend by the people here as he led the country to their second Suzuki Cup title after 10 years.
Vietnam beat Malaysia 1-0 in the second leg of the final at the MyDinh Stadium on Saturday. In the first leg, the teams drew 2-2.
During a press conference after the match, some Vietnamese players entered the room and celebrated with the 59-year-old by spraying energy drinks on him and his translator.
“I’m really happy to win tonight. We did our best for two months to ensure that we get this win. The love and support from the Vietnamese people have been immense.
“It’s an honour to have this kind support from all of you. Please love the Korean people just as you love me,” said Hang-seo, who dedicated the trophy to all the Vietnamese people.
Nguyen Ang Duc’s solitary goal was hugely celebrated by the fans but the ever-strict Korean said it happened because the 11 players on the pitch worked for the goal.
“The goal was good but the soul of the nation and the 22 players in the squad were part of that goal.”
Vietnam also broke the longest unbeaten streak in international football, as they have won 16 games in a row in the last two years– bettering France’s record of 15 matches.
The Golden Dragons will take part in the 2019 Asia Cup, which will be held in the United Arab Emirates from Jan 5-Feb 1.
They are placed in Group D with Middle East sides Iraq, Iraq and Yemen.