Portuguese players: 'Vietnamese women are really hard to play'

"Difficult match against Portugal," Jacinto told RTP after the victory over Vietnam 2-in Group E of the 2023 World Cup on July 27. "Vietnamese players compete well and stick to it. They play fiercely, are disciplined and never give up. But we also hold the ball well, create many chances and can score more goals. ".

Vietnam started promisingly in the match against Portugal, overflowing early. However, the somewhat risky approach to the match caused Mai Duc Chung's students to soon concede two goals in the first 21 minutes, thereby losing the initiative. In the rest of the time, Vietnam played more disciplined and defended more closely. However, the heavy pressure as well as the lack of qualifications made Vietnam not create a significant counterattack opportunity and accepted a 0-2 loss.

"Vietnam fights very fiercely, they are strong and agile," midfielder Marchao shared with his teammates. "They're a tough opponent. No match in the World Cup is easy. Winning here is a great experience. We could have won more, but we need to be more efficient in finishing. point".

Portugal attended the Women's World Cup for the first time like Vietnam, but the level was outstanding. The European representative is rich in speed, strength and technique and won well. With three points after two matches, they need to beat the US in the last match to continue. If the US draws, Portugal must expect the Netherlands to lose to Vietnam - which is very unlikely.

"We are happy because we have completed the task in the match against Vietnam, to have the right to decide in the final match," said veteran striker Carolina Mendes. "We will think about the match against the US later, because now is the time to enjoy the first victory in the World Cup."

While Portugal had their first victory in the World Cup, Vietnam could not score the first goal in the prestigious playground. Even so, the stats also improved. In total, the team hit five shots, including one on target in the match against Portugal. In the loss to the US, coach Mai Duc Chung's students could not finish a single time. The team definitely stops after the group stage. In the last match, Vietnam will meet the runner-up before the Netherlands.