After their convincing performance against Laos on the opening day of AFF Suzuki Cup 2018, Vietnam have earned the favourites tag in Group A.
Laos coach, V. Sundramoorthy, who watched the might of the Vietnamese from the bench, said in his opinion, they were the favourites. According to the former Singapore star, the Vietnamese were indeed a force and are the team to beat.
Sundramoorthy’s Malaysian counterpart, Tan Cheng Hoe, also echoed his former Kedah teammate’s sentiments after last night’s match.
“They are the favourites,” said Cheng Hoe, who admitted it would be a tough game for his boys in Hanoi.
After securing their second straight win against Laos yesterday, the Malaysians have six points but they’re not quite there yet. Malaysia, who recovered from a goal down to beat Laos 3-1, had won their opening match against Cambodia 1-0.
With Vietnam looking a strong bet to advance, the other semis spot may go down to a battle between Malaysia and Myanmar.
But the Malaysians are aiming for a good result against Vietnam and although the coach did not say it, snatching at least a point in Hanoi will go a long way for the 2010 champions.
“They are strong, but we can’t go there and defend for 90 minutes. We must also attack to get the goals and a good result.”
While Malaysia takes on Vietnam, the other Group A tie will see Laos hosting Myanmar in Vientiane on Friday.
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