Football 

Hà Nội Police look toward a second win at the  ASEAN Club Championship -- Shopee Cup on home turf. They will host Lion City Sailors of Singapore on September 26 at the Hàng Đãy Stadium. Photo Courtesy of Hà Nội Police

HÀ NỘI — Coach Mano Polking hopes for a second win for Hà Nội Police at the ASEAN Club Championship Shopee Cup, when they host Lion City Sailors of Singapore on September 26 in Hà Nội.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Brazilian said a victory would create favourable advantage for his team in the tournament's knockout stage, while also inspiring the team in the domestic league, where they have taken only one point after two matches.

"In the Shopee Cup, we got off to a good start with a victory in the first match and will play at home tomorrow. This is an advantage for us, thereby creating psychological momentum for the players to perform better in the V-League 1 arena," said Polking.

"It's too early to call it a poor start in the V-League 1, my players have so far performed well. There are still many games left and we have enough time to analyse and adjust our tactics to get the best results."

Polking said the Lion City Sailors were a strong side with some players competing in European tournaments and many others playing for the national side, with a lot of experienced players. The team dominate the Singapore league which will give them confidence, although they will be the visiting side.

However the coach added that the Police are well prepared for the match and despite the absence of some key players, they were ready to win.

"Alan Grafite could not play leading to the team's poor scoring however Leo Artur and Nguyễn Đình Bắc could take charge the duty. Of course, they need time to work well with each other but I hope they could convert opportunities into goals tomorrow," Polking said.

Hà Nội Police coach Mano Polking at the press briefing on September 25. VNA/VNS Photo

Polking added that he also had his own experience and knowledge about the Sailors, as some of their players took part in the Thai league when he was head coach of their national team. 

Midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải agreed with his coach and said the Police would give their all in the match. 

On the other side, coach Aleksandar Rankovic said the hosts would be a big challenge for his team as they were the strongest one in Group B. Home to quality players and a powerful playing style, the Police would create difficulty for any rival.

He said playing away was a disadvantage for the Sailors, but they were well prepared, had different tactical plans and expected to return home with a good result.

Goalkeeper Izwan Mahbuk expressed his worry about the Police's strong front line, especially talented midfielder Hải, who would certainly make it a tough game. He said his team must strictly follow coaches' tactics.

The match will kick off at 7.30pm and will be aired live on FPT play. VNS