Indonesian National Team coach Shin Tae Yong admitted that he had not taught tactics to the young Garuda team players optimally. This was revealed by Shin Tae Yong after Indonesia lost 0-1 to Vietnam in the third match of Group B of the 2024 AFF Cup at Viet Tri Stadium, Sunday (15/12) evening.
Even though he admitted defeat to Vietnam, Shin Tae Yong still expressed his appreciation to Kim Sang Sik’s team for playing better. According to him, the difference in skill and quality between the Vietnam players and the Garuda squad, whose average age is 20 years, is a determining factor in the outcome of the match.
“The Indonesian League has a rule for U-23 players, at least one player plays. So in our team there are a number of players who play because of this rule, so maybe it would be profitable if there were U-23 players,” said Shin Tae Yong.
The coach from South Korea also highlighted the lack of preparation time which was an obstacle in teaching tactics to young Indonesian players.
“We didn’t have much time to prepare for this match. For young players, we need time to develop them, but we don’t have enough time during training camp. So it’s difficult for me to give important tactical input to this team, so it’s very unfortunate,” said Shin Tae Yong.
In the match against Vietnam, Indonesia recorded less impressive statistics by only controlling the ball 28 percent and recording one shot on target. Even so, Indonesia’s defense line is considered to have improved compared to the previous match.
The Indonesian National Team is currently in second place in Group B by collecting four points from three matches resulting in one win, loss and draw. This position still has the potential to be shifted by the Philippines, who have only played two matches.
Despite facing a difficult situation after being defeated by Vietnam, Shin Tae Yong remains optimistic that Indonesia can qualify for the 2024 AFF Cup semifinals.
“I’m still preparing for the semifinals. I believe that we can advance to the next round,” he stressed.
Vietnam itself dominated the match by creating various opportunities, especially through set-piece schemes. Vietnam’s winning goal was finally created in the 77th minute through Nguyen Quang Hai’s kick.
