Forward Madison Casteen admits to some nerves as she prepares to meet Vietnam again in the AFF Women's Cup third-place playoff, yet she is determined to achieve a positive outcome.
After their defeat to U23 Australia, the Vietnam women's team will face Thailand once more in the battle for third place. In the group stage, coach Mai Duc Chung's squad secured a 1-0 victory over Thailand.
Ahead of this rematch, Thai-American striker Madison Casteen admitted to feeling a little nervous, but emphasized her efforts to help Thailand secure the best result possible.
"We have already played Vietnam in the group stage. Thailand knows what areas need improvement, and this time, we don't want to leave empty-handed. We'll give our all to claim third place.
Vietnamese fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to support their team. This match promises to be very exciting. I'm a bit nervous, but I feel fully prepared. My goal is to help the team score. I want to apologize to Thai fans for not reaching the final, but we will fight hard in the upcoming match to bring Thailand the highest possible ranking."
Although she has yet to turn 18, Madison Casteen was called up to join the senior Thai women's national team. The 2007-born star quickly proved her worth by scoring three goals in this tournament.
With her performances, Madison Casteen is seen as the future of Thai women's football, aiming to win titles alongside her teammates and seniors.
On the Vietnamese side, coach Mai Duc Chung is also determined to win a medal as a tribute to the fans."We haven't shown our best yet or met our set goals. We are deeply moved by the support from fans in Hai Phong and across the country. The whole team will focus even more to defeat Thailand in the next match."
The showdown between the Thai and Vietnamese women's teams will take place at 4:30 PM on August 19.