Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh penned a letter to head coach Cristiano Roland and the entire Vietnam U17 men's national football team on April 10, ahead of their crucial match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the evening.
In his letter, PM Chinh conveyed the immense pride and excitement shared by tens of millions of Vietnamese football fans who have been enthralled by the young team’s resilience and excellence throughout their remarkable journey. The young squad has earned critical points against formidable opponents such as Australia and reigning AFC U17 champions Japan, paving their way to the AFC U17 Championship finals and the coveted U17 World Cup qualifiers.
He hailed this milestone as a powerful reflection of the team’s unwavering dedication, unity, and passion, as well as their bravery in surmounting challenges. “Without retreat, they consistently compete with full commitment to uphold the honour of Vietnam’s national colours”, he wrote.
The Vietnamese leader extended high praise to the coaching staff, players, support team, and all those who have stood by the squad, especially head coach Roland for his strategic helm.
He expressed confidence in their readiness for the decisive match, stating “I firmly believe the coaching staff and players will approach this game with meticulous preparation and a sound tactical strategy. I trust you will perform with focus and utmost resolve, embodying a ‘warm heart, cool head’ mindset, while uniting as a single force to achieve the best outcome”.
The PM stressed that a triumph would not only highlight the strides made in Vietnamese football but also elevate the sport’s development across the region, paving the way for its continued growth in Vietnam. “The Vietnamese people, especially ardent football fans like me, will steadfastly stand behind you, cheering for the progress and success of Vietnamese football, particularly at the youth level”, he added.
In closing, he wished the head coach and the entire team good health, success, and continued excellence in their pursuit of glory for the nation./.
Vietnam U17 start Asian Cup campaign with draw against Australia
Australia went ahead thanks to Quinn MacNicol's screamer in the first half, but Vietnam soon equalised through Hoang Trong Duy Khang early in the second half.
