Laotian players are more afraid of fighting Vietnam than Indonesia

Solo, Beritasatu.com – Coach Ha Hyeok Jun stated that Laotian players were more confident facing Indonesia than Vietnam. The psychological differences and self-confidence of the players were the key to their joyful performance.

The result was that Laos was able to hold the Indonesian National Team to a 3-3 draw in the Group B match, 2024 AFF Cup at Manahan Stadium, Solo, on Thursday (12/12/2024).

“The Laotian players were very nervous in the first match against Vietnam, which is a very strong opponent,” Ha said in a press conference after the match.

“However, when they faced Indonesia, they were much more comfortable and confident. “That’s the reason we get better results,” he explained.

The match against Indonesia was full of drama. Laos, considered the underdog team, appeared brave and continued to lead. However, Indonesia managed to equalize on every occasion, creating an engaging match. After 18 minutes, the score was 2-2, a fast record in the 2024 AFF Cup.

In the second half, the situation got hotter after Marselino Ferdinan received a red card in the 69th minute. However, both teams continued to score additional goals until the match ended in a draw.

Ha Hyeok-jun made major changes by replacing eight starting positions from the Laos squad which previously lost to Vietnam. Only captains Bounphachan Bounkong, Anantaza Siphogphan and Phetdavanh Somsanith were retained.

On the other hand, Indonesia retained most of its best players such as Kadek Arel, Pratama Arhan and Hokky Caraka, despite making four rotations from the previous win over Myanmar.

Laos’ youngest player, Phousomboun Panyavong, made history as the youngest player to score a goal in the ASEAN Cup, at the age of 17 years, 5 months and 22 days. “The Laois players showed courage and created many opportunities according to plan,” said Ha.

This draw was the second time for Laos against Indonesia in AFF Cup history, after a 2-2 score in 2012. This was also the first time that Laos players scored three goals against Indonesia, giving them a morale boost for their next match against the Philippines on December 15 at home Alone.