Vietnam's 'Man Without Lungs' Speaks Out After Defeating Hai Phong

Trong Hoang's revelations highlight a crucial turning point that helped Ha Tinh overcome a high-performing opponent, while also opening up significant hope in the relegation battle.

Hong Linh Ha Tinh made an impressive comeback by defeating Hai Phong in round 19 of V.League, thereby ending a streak of three consecutive losses. The match not only held significance for points but also helped the Hong mountain team regain confidence during a critical phase of the season, especially when the opponent was performing at a very high level.

Sharing after the match, veteran Nguyen Trong Hoang candidly acknowledged the team's previous issues. He stated: "In the past matches, Hong Linh Ha Tinh Club did not perform well. Today, fortunately, coach Nguyen Cong Manh changed tactics and rearranged personnel, as well as the players training together, striving together, and delivering a fairly good match." This adjustment became a crucial turning point.

Not only tactical changes, but the mental factor was also particularly emphasized by Trong Hoang. Against a Hai Phong side that had just secured two important victories, Ha Tinh entered the match with high determination. "Entering this match, Hai Phong Club had two very important victories and their performance was truly excellent. But Ha Tinh today played with a never-give-up spirit. From the coaching staff to the players, we all strived together to secure victory in today's match", he shared.

The valuable three points helped Ha Tinh temporarily climb to 9th place with 23 points, creating a gap of up to 11 points from the bottom-placed Da Nang team. This is considered a significant advantage in the relegation race, giving the team more room to strategize for the remaining tough stretch of the season.

Nevertheless, Trong Hoang remained cautious when discussing upcoming goals. He emphasized that the team will focus on improving through each match rather than being complacent with the current position. "We will strive to improve match by match to achieve the best possible points, allowing us to breathe easier", the former Vietnamese national team player affirmed.

At 37 years old, Trong Hoang remains a highlight with a resilient performance throughout 90 minutes. When asked about his impressive physical foundation, he modestly attributed it to luck working in a professional environment, receiving great support from the coaching staff and teammates. This not only helps him maintain his form but also makes him a spiritual symbol for the entire team.