HÀ NỘI — A big win over Yemen in Group D’s last round match tonight will help Việt Nam having reach the knock-out stage of the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

Việt Nam are third in their group with no points and a goal difference of minus three. They are currently No 5 in the ranking for third-placed teams after two matches.

After Bahrain took their first out of four places the next round, Việt Nam will have to vie for a spot with Syria (one point, goal difference of -2), Kyrgyzstan (no point, goal difference of -2), Oman (no point, goal difference of -2) and Lebanon (no point, goal difference of -4).

A big win would give Việt Nam a better chance but they must still rely on other results.

According to Hà Nhật Đoàn, an official of the Việt Nam Football Federation in UAE, Việt Nam coach Park Hang-seo is urging his players to stay positive and concentrate solely on a big performance in the last group game.

"We watched the videos of their matches," said midfielder Bùi Tiến Dũng.

“Out coaches showed us their pros and cons and told us how to limit their strong points while dig out their weaknesses."

"We were exhausted after two matches against strong teams. We are in good condition now and determined for a win although we know that Yemen is not easy. It’s 50-50 for us."

Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc yesterday sent a letter to encourage the team.

He wrote: "On behalf of the Government I appreciate the players, coaches and staff of the national football team who have tried hard with determination in the two previous matches in the Asian Cup.

“They showed their Vietnamese spirit and bravery. I hope that under coach Park Hang-seo the team will prepare well, play their best and take a win in the last group round match, completing their target set up prior to the tournament. Millions of people will be supporting them."

The match between world No 105 Việt Nam and No 140 Yemen, officiated by referee Ahmed Al-Kaf of Oman, will be at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium and begin at 11pm Hà Nội time. — VNS