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AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup
While content with obtaining maximum points from the opening match, the Englishman admitted that he expects more from his team in the upcoming games.
#U20WAC | Group A: China PR 3-0 Vietnam
“I am pleased we won and with the way we used the width of the pitch, but I think we can still play better,” said Bell. “Vietnam defended quite high, so we had to try and make use of the space and channel the ball well, which was initially not going our way, but in the end, it was exactly that play that led to our second goal.”
With Zheng Lu’s brace giving them a comfortable lead before the break, the 64-year-old also said that the aim for the second half was to consolidate the lead, and lauded his side for being able to control the game for the most part of the remaining minutes.
With Zheng Lu’s brace giving them a comfortable lead before the break, the 64-year-old also said that the aim for the second half was to consolidate the lead, and lauded his side for being able to control the game for the most part of the remaining minutes.
“After that, being 2-0 up at half-time, we were trying to keep everything safe,” he said. “In the second half, we should have scored right away, which would have really settled things, but I am happy with the way the girls kept control.”
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Despite the defeat, Vietnam head coach Masahiko Okiyama maintained an unperturbed disposition and praised his charges for sticking to his instructions, dismissing the goals conceded as momentary lapses.
“I think the team played quite well and I am quite happy that they followed the instructions of the coaching staff,” said Okiyama. “Of course, I regret the scoreline, but I think those were just personal mistakes and a temporary loss of attention and control.”
“I think the team played quite well and I am quite happy that they followed the instructions of the coaching staff,” said Okiyama. “Of course, I regret the scoreline, but I think those were just personal mistakes and a temporary loss of attention and control.”
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The Japanese tactician also highlighted the weather as a factor in his team’s performance, pointing out that the cooler conditions enabled the Southeast Asians to return from the break with more spirit.
“I think after half-time, it got a bit cooler, so the girls could show who they are, and that makes me happy. I think they defended well after the break, and I was pleased to see them taking chances while also maintaining a steady backline.”
“I think after half-time, it got a bit cooler, so the girls could show who they are, and that makes me happy. I think they defended well after the break, and I was pleased to see them taking chances while also maintaining a steady backline.”
