The “rematch” between Vietnam and Malaysia taking place in the World Cup 2022 qualifiers kicks off tonight. Here are five names who are expected to shine at My Dinh Stadium.
1.Nguyen Quang Hai
Quang Hai receives plenty of attention from fans in each battle. At 1.68m tall, he is the most well-rounded player on the Golden Dragons. Good tactical vision and technical skill helps him play well in both midifield and the attack. He knows how to deploy a quick counter-attack, which coach Park is relying on for the Vietnam national team.
A sudden long-range shot, a free kick or a pass though to opposing defense can help Vietnam gain an advantage against Malaysia. Harimau Malaysia defenders should certainly be cautious if Quang Hai has the ball.
2. Mohamadou Sumareh
Naturalized forward Mohamadou Sumareh has played a prominent role for Malaysia since the AFF Cup 2018 and gradually became a pillar in coach Tan Cheng Hoe's squad. The Gambia-born hero scored an impressive brace in Malaysia’s 3-2 win over Indonesia.
Physical strength, cardio, speed and a certain mischievousness in the game will be the advantages of Sumareh in the coming encounter. Que Ngoc Hai and his teammates should keep the ball away from this player. His is a dangerous player on both wings, whose forte is cutting inside to score or set up his teammates.
Stamina, Physical strength, speed and a mischievous style will be the advantages of Sumareh against Vietnam in the coming encounter.
3. Nguyen Tuan Anh
There were many doubts when Tuan Anh started in the Thailand match. But after 90 minutes, all had to admire the Korean coach’s talent as a strategist. Tuan Anh, 25, managed very well in midfield with the ability to move the ball and escape the press well. He not only neutralized Chanathip Songkrasin, but also attacked the ball defensively.
With what has been shown by Vietnam and the HAGL club, Tuan Anh will likely start in the upcoming match to neutralize Malaysia’s offense. With a consistent and deft style of play, Tuan Anh will keep the Golden Dragons sharp.
4. Syafiq Ahmad
Along with Mohamadou Sumareh, Syafiq Ahmad is the first hope in the attack, playing at an extremely high level. The 24-year-old stole the show in the friendly against Sri Lanka with an impressive hattrick. Earlier, he found the net against strong opponents in Indonesia and the UAE in the first two matches of World Cup 2022 qualifiers. He is fast and crafty, and quick to find openings in the defense.
The confrontation between Syafiq Ahmad and Que Ngoc Hai in the next match will certainly be exciting.
5. Nguyen Cong Phuong
Cong Phuong has taken the field for Vietnam in many battles with Malaysia. Every time Phuong caps, Vietnam stays unbeaten against the Malaysia. Cong Phuong opened the scoring for the home team in the AFC Cup 2018 qualifiers.
Currently, despite being out of form in Sint-Truidense, he may be a principle weapon of Coach Park in the clash tonight.
The match between Vietnam and Malaysia Tel will take place at 8:00pm on Oct 10.