The first goal of Vietnam – the AFF Suzuki Cup champions – is to qualify for the knockout stages at the AFC Asian Cup 2019, coach Park Hang-Seo said in a recent interview to Tasnim News Agency of Iran.
Coach Park Hang-Seo
Vietnam are pooled with Iran, Iraq and Yemen in Group D of the AFC Asian Cup which will begin in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 5.
The Golden Dragons will open their campaign against Iraq on January 8.
Vietnam will face Asian heavyweights Iran on January 12 before wrapping up their group stage commitments with a match against Asian Cup debutants Yemen on January 16.
“After winning the AFF Suzuki Cup, the fans’ expectations are high at the Asian Cup. The first goal of the Vietnamese team is to qualify for the next round,” the Korean tactician said.
“To advance to the Round of 16, you have to earn at least four points. It’s very difficult to beat Iran but we will progress if we can overcome Yemen and Iraq,” he added.-VNA