Coach Hoang Van Phuc: “We didn't play for one point, but to win” - Vietnam women's team advances to Asiad 2026 quarterfinals

The Vietnam women's national football team has officially qualified for the quarter-finals of the 2026 Asian Games women's football tournament. In the final group stage match, coach Hoang Van Phuc's side drew 0-0 with Thailand. Although no goal was scored, this result combined with the outcome in Group F sent Vietnam through as one of the best third-placed teams. The 0-0 draw between Myanmar and Bangladesh earlier had opened the door for Vietnam. With Myanmar failing to take all three points, Vietnam overtook Myanmar in the third-placed teams ranking, meaning the wildcard ticket was secured before the match against Thailand ended. Speaking at the post-match press conference, coach Hoang Van Phuc revealed that his team knew about the Group F result before kick-off. 'Therefore, we had to get at least one point to advance. But the team's mentality was not to play for a point. We wanted to win,' he stressed. However, things were not easy. Thailand made significant tactical changes, switching to a three-centre-back formation with attacking wing-backs. At times, Thailand deployed five midfielders in the middle, which made it very difficult for Vietnam to build up play through the centre. Coach Hoang Van Phuc admitted: 'In the first half, we did not control the midfield well.' Thailand's dominance in the middle made Vietnam's attacks stagnate. It was not until the second half, after tactical adjustments, that Vietnam regained control. 'We pressed Thailand high in the second half. We had two or three clear chances, notably from Bich Thuy and Vu Thi Hoa. If we had converted them, we could have scored,' Phuc said. A point against Thailand was enough to secure Vietnam's place in the knockout rounds. For Hoang Van Phuc, satisfaction was understandable. But one issue remains a concern: the attack. Vietnam scored only once in three group stage matches. That statistic clearly reflects a weakness in finishing. Explaining this, Hoang Van Phuc said the team created chances, but circumstances varied. 'Apart from Japan, which is at a completely different level, Vietnam had clear scoring opportunities, especially against Chinese Taipei,' he said. Regarding the Thailand match, he explained that the context was different. 'When one point was enough to advance, we could not take too many risks. If we had pushed the team higher, we could score, but the risk would also be huge,' he analysed. This was a reasonable decision by the coaching staff. In a tournament like the Asian Games, with a dense schedule and high intensity, preserving energy is crucial. Instead of chasing a win at all costs, Vietnam chose to play safe and secure progress. Now, Vietnam will face a strong opponent in the quarter-finals: China. China has been impressive in the group stage and is rated far superior in every aspect. They have physical advantages, technical skills and vast international experience. Coach Hoang Van Phuc said the two teams had met during a training camp before the tournament. He candidly admitted: 'They are better than the Vietnam women's team.' Asked about the plan, he remained cautious. 'First, we have to help the players recover. Then we will think about the game plan. The most feasible option is counter-attacking defence.' This tactic is not new, but it is the most realistic choice when facing a team with superior quality. Vietnam needs a solid, well-organised defence to minimise space in front of the box. In attack, quick counter-attacks or set pieces could be key weapons. Notably, the team's morale is high. Reaching the Asian Games quarter-finals is a commendable achievement that gives confidence to the players. In the past, Vietnam has often caused upsets against stronger teams. That could happen again. The match between Vietnam and China will take place at 17:00 (Vietnam time) on September 25. This is the biggest test for Hoang Van Phuc's side at this tournament. But in football, anything is possible. With careful preparation and a bit of luck, Vietnam could cause a major shock. Vietnam's journey at the 2026 Asian Games is not over yet. They are still writing their own fairy tale. And fans will always be there to cheer for the girls on their path to new heights.