KUALA LUMPUR: National interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe (pic) has faced Vietnam six times in his coaching career without a single win – but he is hoping to end that run when his Harimau Malaya side take on the Golden Star Warriors in the first leg of the Hyundai AFF Cup semi-final at the Cheras Football Stadium on Sunday (Aug 16).
Speaking at the pre-match press conference at the stadium on Saturday (Aug 15), Cheng Hoe said it is something he is aware of but one he wants to overcome.
"I do not have a good record against Vietnam because at that time, when I was the national coach, Vietnam had the best team under Coach Park (Hang-seo). We respect his ability as a coach, really, we can’t win against them.
"Coming to this tournament, we know Vietnam also have a few naturalised players, really good in attacking. So we have to be aware of their quick attack and the good combination, and very strong attacking side, especially with their captain Nguyen Quang Hai who still wears the No.14, very good in ball distribution. So all this we have to prepare."
And he also added that the semi-final presented an opportunity for fringe players to step up.
"This is the best chance for these young players – those who are not regulars for the national team, like Daryl Sham (George), Ibrahim Manusi and Ziad El Basheer – to fill the gap for the team,” he said.
"I’m sure that if these players are given a chance, they will do their best. The most important thing is that we support them and encourage them to go into the semi-final.
"Not every player gets the chance to play in a game of this magnitude. We know it will be tough, but it’s up to us. We have to believe in ourselves and go into the pitch with confidence and focus.”
