Vietnam Women's Team Loses 0-3 to China: 'First Half Was Positive', Says Coach Hoang Van Phuc

On a training ground in China, when the final whistle blew, the scoreline 0-3 appeared on the scoreboard. But for coach Hoang Van Phuc, the story is not just about that number. In a closed friendly match to prepare for the 2026 Asian Games, the Vietnam women's national team fought resolutely in the first half. His players maintained a low, compact block, moved in unison, and even created a few dangerous counter-attacking chances. However, in the second half, fatigue and gaps in transition led to two goals conceded within 10 minutes (48' and 58'), before China sealed the 3-0 victory. In the 85th minute, Vietnam had a goal disallowed for offside. This was a match where Coach Hoang Van Phuc highly praised the players' spirit in the first half. "In the first half we played according to plan, organized well and created opportunities. Unfortunately we didn't capitalize," he said. He also emphasized the value of this match in testing fitness, experimenting with lineups, and gaining experience for the Asian Games group stage. On the bench, the coach gave opportunities to new faces like Hoang Thi Loan, Duong Thi Van, etc., to assess integration and squad depth. Despite the loss, the positive outlook from the coaching staff shows this is not a disaster but a necessary test before the continental tournament. Coach Hoang Van Phuc also reminded of the difficult context as the team is placed in the same group as hosts Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Thailand at the 2026 Asian Games. The opening match against Chinese Taipei on September 14 will be the real challenge. With careful preparation and a learning attitude, the Vietnam women's team is gradually shaping an active defensive-counter style, although there are still gaps in physical strength and finishing ability. Kazan taught us that glory is sometimes tasted through tears; this defeat is the same, what matters is the lesson drawn from each match. The match had no spectators, no noise, but the pitch never lies. It points out that Vietnam needs to improve endurance and maintain defensive shape in the second half if they want to cause an upset at the Asian Games. The 0-3 scoreline is a reality, but the memory reel of a friendly match never closes. Look forward.