As anticipation rises, India is slated to face off against Vietnam in an international friendly. This clash offers an exciting exhibit of talent and teamwork, as both countries seek to bolster their confidence and motivation ahead of future competitions and also serve as a platform for players to make their mark. As kickoff draws near, fans are enthusiastic to witness what is sure to be a heated battle on the field.
This match was priorly included as an event in the Tri-Nation Series which was set to commence early October. However, due to the current scenario, Lebanon has withdrawn its participation in this Tri-Nation Series, and the list is now cut short to just India vs Vietnam.
Recent Form Of India and Vietnam
So far in 2024, India has been putting up a disappointing performance. We haven’t had any notable achievements this year and also recently dropped down 2 ranks to 126 in the FIFA World Ranking but the decision to appoint experienced Spanish tactician, Manolo Marquez to replace their former Croatian head coach, Igor Stimac is broadly appreciated among the Indian Football fans as Stimac failed to present to us what we wanted, despite giving him numerous opportunities.
The team has played a total of eight matches under Stimac and one match under Manolo Marquez in 2024 and is yet to emerge victorious in a match. The results were 6 defeats and 3 draws from a total of 9 matches.
Meanwhile Vietnam on the other hand has also displayed an even more miserable performance in the 2024 footballing calendar. They have played a total of 6 matches under the guidance of their former French head coach, Philippe Troussier, and 4 matches after the appointment of South Korean head coach, Kim Sang-Sik. They experienced defeat in nine of them and only won one match which was under Kim.
Head To Head
India has only clashed with Vietnam two times in history. The first head-to-head was in 2010 in an international friendly which the rivals did end up winning 3-1. Second encounter was in 2022 when history repeated as Vietnam defeated the Blue Tigers 3-0 this time. Overall we are yet to win a match against Vietnam and considering the current situation of both sides, predicting the outcome of the match will be near impossible.
Probable Lineups
India: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Chinglensana Singh, Roshan Singh, Jeakson Singh, Apuia, Brandon Fernandes, Liston Colaco, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh.
Vietnam: Filip Nguyen (GK), Thanh Binh Nguyen, Thanh Chung Nguyen, Ngoc Hai Que, Phong Hong Nguyen, Truong Nguyen, Hung Dung Do, Xuan Pham, Quang Hai Nguyen, Tien Nguyen, Van Phan.
IFTWC’s Prediction
As India and Vietnam prepare to clash, their limited but intriguing head-to-head history sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting encounter. Both teams have shown consistent development in the past few years, and this match offers an exceptional chance for both sides to test their abilities against a worthy opponent. For India, it’s about looking forward to creating a positive record and building momentum, while Vietnam will be eager to turn the tide and assert its dominance on home soil.
With both nations hungry for success and using this tournament as a crucial stepping stone towards bigger competitions, fans can expect an aggressive and exciting match. Whether India extends its poor form or Vietnam is the one on the receiving end, this encounter will undoubtedly add yet another appealing chapter to this clash between Asia’s two sides.
Streaming
India vs Vietnam will be streamed on Fancode on 12th October, 4:30 IST.
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