Laos coach: 'Losing Vietnam because of distraction'

"Vietnam has many good players, highly organized. We tried to make it difficult for the opponent. But after the equalizer, the team lost focus. And so the game changed very quickly." Coach Arena said after the 1-4 loss at Rayong Stadium.

Laos is underrated, but started well on Rayong field. They actively surrounded, fierce disputes caused Vietnam to fail many passes. Even after being led from the 23rd minute, the Arena coach's army still did not break the match, kicking on par with Vietnam and then equalizing from the 52nd minute. Thipphachan kicked back into the empty net after goalkeeper Van Chuan missed the punch.

But after the equalizer, Laos lost the game again. They advanced too high, leaving a lot of room for Vietnam to attack. Coach Gugiermo Arena's team conceded three goals in a row after the finishing phase of Minh Quang in the 72nd minute, Xuan Tien in the 76th minute and Vi Hao in the 90th minute.

According to Coach Arena, the defeat against Vietnam was partly due to the fact that the Lao players were too young. "The Laos squad is younger than Vietnam. My players lack experience. They should have focused and handled the situation faster. Against Vietnam, you can't make that mistake. But today, Vietnam. deserved victory, they are stronger than us," added this military leader.

Laos brings to Thailand a young force, with many U20 players. Vietnam also does the same thing, using the core U20. But coach Hoang Anh Tuan's army still has some experienced players in the V-League such as Khuat Van Khang, Luong Duy Cuong or Dinh Xuan Tien...

Before Vietnam, Laos drew the Philippines 2-2. They therefore no longer have the opportunity to occupy the top of the table due to the final break, and Vietnam plays the Philippines.

"We will continue to improve ourselves. My team needs matches with strong opponents like Vietnam to improve," added Coach Arena.