Vietnam's national team lost two consecutive matches, Argentine coach states frankly one thing

Coach Diego Giustozzi expressed satisfaction with the two trial matches against Afghanistan's futsal team even though both resulted in losses.

During the preparation process for the 2026 AFC Futsal Championship, the Vietnam futsal team played two high-quality internal matches against Afghanistan’s futsal team in Ho Chi Minh City. Through these contests, head coach Diego Giustozzi highly appreciated the technical value of these “tests,” while also pointing out specific demands regarding physical fitness, experience, and competitive spirit that the team needs to further develop before entering the continental competition.

Regarding the outcomes of the two matches against Afghanistan, Coach Diego Giustozzi said: “The two games against Afghanistan revealed areas for improvement and demonstrated the team’s capabilities. I have no doubt about the players’ technical skills, but we cannot rely solely on technique; we need to be more aggressive, more experienced, and better understand each situation.

Afghanistan recently participated in the World Cup, so this level is what we need to reach to qualify for the World Cup. I’m pleased that after these matches, we can clearly identify our goals and know what we need to improve.”

The Argentine coach emphasized that the recent series of matches has crucially guided the next phase of preparation. “When facing Southeast Asian teams like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, or Myanmar, the physical and technical levels are somewhat comparable.

But when confronting other Asian opponents with different fitness foundations and playing qualities, we must elevate our level. These two matches helped me better understand how to work in the coming days to prepare for matches against such high-caliber teams,” Coach Diego Giustozzi stated.

According to the plan, the Vietnam futsal team will depart for Indonesia on January 24 to participate in the 2026 AFC Futsal Championship. Before departure, head coach Diego Giustozzi will finalize the official squad consisting of 14 players.

At the 2026 AFC Futsal Championship, Vietnam’s futsal team is placed in Group B alongside very strong opponents, including the reigning Asian runner-up Thailand, Kuwait, and Lebanon. This group is considered highly competitive, requiring Coach Diego Giustozzi and his players to prepare thoroughly in terms of fitness, tactics, and competitive mindset if they want to achieve their set goals.