Vietnam’s victory over Jordan at Asian Cup grabs int’l headlines
Vietnam’s “golden star” warriors have received praise from the international media following their convincing win 4-2 over Jordan on January 20 to advance to the quarterfinals of the AFC Asian Cup 2019.
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AFP described Vietnam emerged “victorious” from a penalty shoot-out with Jordan, and become the first team to reach the tourney’s quarter-finals after being the last team to scrape into the round of 16.
“The Southeast Asian champions were on balance the stronger and more positive team over the 120 minutes”, it said.
Reuters complimented Vietnam for their excellent performance, neat interplay, and stylish touches.
On its website, Fox Sports Asia quoted a line-up of comments from football aficionados, who depicted the Vietnam’s triumph as “fairy tale” but convincing and deserving. Many fans from Thailand expressed their profound admiration.
In its player ratings following the match, Fox Sports Asia gave mark 9 for Nguyen Cong Phuong who “had another brilliant game and got a vital goal early in the second half”, Bui Tien Dung who “made crucial challenges and kept Jordan at bay for much of the game” and goalkeeper Dang Van Lam who “was very calm under pressure, and held his nerve during a tense penalty shootout”.
Meanwhile, the Korean media were impressed by coach Park Hang-seo’s magic. He has received media coverage in his homeland since he led the Vietnamese football team at the AFC U23 Championships 2018, ASIAD 2018, and AFF Suzuki Cup 2018.
Chosunilbo said that Park’s magic helped Vietnam play better than their rivals.
The Daily Sports praised Park’s ability when he and the Vietnamese football team beat Jordan to gain the first ticket to the quarterfinal round.
