Cheng Hoe optimistic of positive result in Hanoi
KUALA LUMPUR: Harimau Malaya head coach, Tan Cheng Hoe believes his team can overcome the disappointing 2-2 draw at home in the second leg of the final of the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup in Hanoi this Saturday.
Cheng Hoe admitted that his side started well in the first 10 minutes before losing concentration which allowed Vietnam to score two goals after 25 minutes of play, but was optimistic the team could get a positive result in the second leg.
“Overall we played well and of course we did concede two easy goals. We started well but then lost concentration but we still have 90 minutes to go and I’m positive and optimistic for the game in Hanoi,” he said at the post-match press conference yesterday.
The national side fought hard to put the game level after being down 0-2. Shahrul Mohd Saad headed in the country’s first goal followed by Muhammad Safawi Rasid’s superb free kick in the second half.
Meanwhile, Despite scoring two away goals, Vietnam’s head coach, Park HangSeo was dissapointed with the result.
“It was little bit disappointing to draw in a away match, so we must do better in Hanoi,” he said.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Safawi said it was the most intense match the Harimau Malaya had played in the tournament thus far.
“It was a close match and the two goals we gave away put added pressure on us. But we fought back and now have 90 more minutes to do our best and bring the Cup home,” he said. - Bernama