Two defeats left Philippines without a point and head coach Rafael Rodriguez has called on his players to deliver their best against Hong Kong, China.

“We didn’t start very well like we did against Islamic Republic of Iran in our opening game. Maybe because of the pressure of needing to win and the players were nervous,” said Rodriguez. “We could have handled the game better but I’m proud of my players, they worked hard to be here. We lost to a better team.

“Experience (is a factor). In big tournaments, if you don't have experience, it can be very difficult. This (tournament) is a big opportunity for us to learn and improve. We need to prepare for the next game with a strong mentality and also to find joy, because this is the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup.”

Despite succumbing to a second consecutive defeat, Hong Kong, China head coach Ho Wing Kam was proud of her charges for showing grit against Iran. 

“I’m quite satisfied with our performance today because we were facing the defending champions and our players, who are not as experienced, did well to hold them at half-time,” said Ho. “We only conceded the second goal 10 minutes into the second half, so we did fantastic.

“Many of our players also play 11-a-side, so perhaps we need more futsal-specific training, such as dedicated training camps, so they can spend more time in futsal training as well as improve their physique. 

“We lost our first two games but our aim all along is to try and get three points against the Philippines. So our preparations for this next game will be very thorough and I hope that we can play to our full potential in order to get the victory to stand a chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed finishers.”

Venue: Hohhot Sports Centre, Hohhot

Kick-off: Sunday, 11:00 (UTC+8)

A tactical reshuffle at half-time secured Iran all three points against a spirited Hong Kong, China, but head coach Foruzan Solymani urged caution ahead of their clash with Vietnam.

“Today we tried to break down the Hong Kong defence and score the first goal. But we let our guard down and they scored through an own goal,” said Solymani. “During the half-time break I told the players to press more and we were able to score the goals and take the victory.

“We will be tested again against Vietnam and they will be tough to break down. However, I believe in my players and we are hoping to come out on top.”

Vietnam impressed with their flexibility to secure their second victory with a convincing performance against the Philippines, leaving head coach Nguyen Dinh Hoang proud.

“We started better than we did in our opening match against Hong Kong, China and created more opportunities – that’s why we got the result,” said the 38-year-old. “Every moment in a match is different. We pressed higher at the start and didn’t allow the Philippines to build their attacks. After that we controlled the game more and focused on scoring.

“I’m happy with the victory because of the players’ efforts – they gave more than 100 percent. Now, we’ll analyse the match against Iran and decide which tactics are most suitable.”

“Our target is clear – we want to win all the way.”

Venue: Hohhot Sports Centre, Hohhot

Kick-off: Sunday, 17:00 (UTC+8)