Midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải (No 19) scored a goal in the 2-2 draw in the friendly between the national senior team and the U22 team on Sunday. — Photo webthethao.vn
HÀ NỘI — The senior national team tied drew 2-2 with the U22 team in a friendly held at Việt Trì City’s Stadium in the northern province of Phú Thọ on Sunday.
In front of nearly 20,000 fans, head coach Park Hang-seo selected a strong senior team including Nguyễn Quang Hải, Nguyễn Tuấn Anh, Nguyễn Công Phượng, Đỗ Hùng Dũng and Phan Văn Đức.
The U22 team also had many notable names such as Huỳnh Công Đến, Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh and Mai Xuân Quyết.
In the 29th minute, defender Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh thumped home for the U22s after a goalmouth scramble following a free-kick delivery.
However, just two minutes later, Hải was fouled in the penalty area and Vũ Văn Thanh slotted home the penalty to equalise.
The senior team pressed ahead and got the second goal to go ahead 2-1 thanks to a sumptuous volley from Hải.
With just seven minutes to go in the second half, the U22 team levelled the scores after slopping defending from the seniors gave Hồ Thanh Minh an empty net.
After the match, midfielder Hải said he was happy that the two teams put on a good show for the crowd.
"I think the most important thing after this match was what the two teams did, what they accomplished, and the two teams gave the audience a good game,” said Hải.
According to Hải, to neutralise the U22's packed defence, following the tactics of the coach was an important factor.
"My teammates and I always play with all our hearts when playing on the field, complying with the tactics from the coaching staff. Every player tried to talk to each other as much as possible, helping the teammates create space and make the right play,” Hải said.
The youngsters were pleased to have drawn with their senior team, said Đến from SHB Đà Nẵng.
"This was a difficult game for the U22 squad. Despite controlling the ball less, the whole team tried to defend the draw. After this match, the coaching staff will analyse weaknesses and point out a good defence for the team,” he said.
“For my personal goal, I will try my best to have a ticket to compete in the SEA Games 31 to be held in Việt Nam,” Đến added.
Earlier, the senior team beat U22 team 3-2 in the first friendly match. — VNS
OVietnam