Coach Vu Tien Thanh uses Arsenal as a driving force for Ho Chi Minh City

"Today, we won a very important victory. The three points were above expectations," coach Vu Tien Thanh shared after the match at Go Dau Stadium on the afternoon of February 17. "Initially, we chose to play closely to try to get at least one point, but the results came as a surprise when the players played well."

Ho Chi Minh City as a guest in Binh Duong after a series of three defeats, have not scored in the V-League 2023. However, they suddenly led 2-0 thanks to the goals of Victor Mansaray and Daniel Green. "After three defeats, we are under great pressure. Fans and media have the right to criticize and disparage", Mr. Thanh continued. "But I motivated the players by taking the example of Arsenal in the Premier League season 2021-2022. At that time, despite losing all of their first three games, they still finished the season in fifth place with 22 It's a testament to the players that they need to work harder for a positive result to come."

Before beating Binh Duong, Ho Chi Minh City lost to Nam Dinh, Hai Phong and Khanh Hoa. According to Mr. Thanh, that failure circuit came from the players not being in shape and not fully adapting to the style of play.

"With the current force, we can no longer play imposing, but must return to a pragmatic, tight defensive style," he said. "We have to find a way to put the players in the right positions for them to maximize their potential. In the previous games, we were unlucky, but this game, the links are better connected. Team will try to do better during the V-League break after round 4."

Before enjoying the joy of victory, HCM City experienced tense moments, especially after being awarded a penalty at the end of the first half. In the middle of the half, coach Vu Tien Thanh and the players reacted harshly to the decision of referee Ngo Duy Lan. He explained: "I stood very close and watched the ball carefully, those collisions were not enough, not worth the penalty. I hope the referee considers and does better."

After this round, the V-League takes a break. The tournament will return on 6/4.