SLNA Head Coach Explains After First Defeat Since Taking Charge

Following the loss to Thanh Hóa, Coach Văn Sỹ Sơn admitted that SLNA is facing fitness issues and must work harder to overcome this challenging period.

After a 0-1 defeat to Đông Á Thanh Hóa at home in Vinh, Coach Văn Sỹ Sơn openly highlighted the weaknesses in SLNA players’ gameplay, especially their fitness levels and lack of consistency in the second half. This loss further deepens the difficulties for the Nghệ An team, which still struggles to move out of the bottom group in the standings.

During the home match against Thanh Hóa, SLNA had high hopes fueled by the fresh momentum under new head coach Văn Sỹ Sơn. However, despite controlling possession more, the home side failed to capitalize on scoring chances. In contrast, Thanh Hóa demonstrated efficiency on counterattacks, with Rimario scoring the only goal in the 32nd minute.

After the match, Coach Văn Sỹ Sơn acknowledged that fitness was the biggest issue he and his players need to improve. He stated: “Regarding fitness, since I just took over, it’s impossible to boost players’ stamina in just a day or two. Without reaching peak physical condition, players will struggle to maintain performance throughout the match. Many think they lack fitness, but in my opinion, what’s essential is more effort and determination.”

The Nghệ An coach also assessed the current quality of foreign players, believing the team still needs time to develop. He shared: “We only have Olaha and one defender performing consistently. The foreign midfielders and forwards still require more time to integrate with this young team and must put in greater effort.”

This defeat means SLNA remains trapped in the danger zone, just one point ahead of the last-placed SHB Đà Nẵng. In this situation, Coach Văn Sỹ Sơn hopes the team will strive harder in upcoming matches to improve their standing. He expressed a desire for his players to seize every opportunity and maintain strong fighting spirit.

He further emphasized: “If we fail to secure even a single point to hold back opponents, the path ahead for the bottom teams will be extremely tough, especially when rivals know how to exploit home advantage. Our players are still young; I hope they will recognize this and work even harder.” These remarks indicate that Coach Văn Sỹ Sơn aims to rebuild the team based on fitness, spirit, and resilience to help SLNA get through the current difficult phase.