Asian Cup 2019: Vietnam preparing a surprise for Iraq
Vietnamese footballers are actively training in preparation for the match against Iraq on January 8, their first game at the AFC Asian Cup 2019 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Vietnamese players in a training session in Abu Dhabi on January 6 (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnamese footballers are activelytraining in preparation for the match against Iraq on January 8, their firstgame at the AFC Asian Cup 2019 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Talking to the press before the training sessionon January 6, midfielder Nguyen Van Toan said the whole squad is eager for thematch, saying he hopes that they will have a good game and meet expectations.
He added that although Iraq is a strong team inAsia, Vietnamese players are still confident and looking forward to asuccessful match.
As this is the leading tournament of Asia, theteam respects all of the rivals. Additionally, the players have a clearviewpoint that they must not be complacent about their achievements over thepast year, but stay focused to get ready for the Asian Cup.
The midfielder hoped that the Asian Cup 2019will be a successful tourney for himself as well as the whole Vietnamese team.
The match against Iraq will kick off at ZayedSport City Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the UAE, at 5:30pm (UAE time) on January 8.
Vietnam are pooled with Iran, Iraq and Yemen inGroup D of the AFC Asian Cup 2019.
After playing Iraq, the team will face Asianheavyweights Iran on January 12 before wrapping up their group stage journeywith a match against Yemen on January 16.
In a recent interview with Tasnim News Agency ofIran, head coach Park Hang-seo said the first goal of Vietnam – the AFF SuzukiCup 2018 champions – is to qualify for the knockout stage of thetournament. –VNA
The first goal of Vietnam – the AFF Suzuki Cup champions - is to qualify for the knockout stages at the AFC Asian Cup 2019, according to coach Park Hang-Seo.
FOX Sports Asia devoted an article in its “Players to Watch” series for AFC Asian Cup 2019 to write about Nguyen Quang Hai, describing him as “the outstanding prospect carrying the hopes of Vietnam”.
In the training session on January 6, the national football team focused on offensive and defensive exercises which will be applied during the outing against Iraq at Asian Cup 2019.
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This is the first time since the adoption of the Convention that a country has served two consecutive terms on the Committee. The outcome shows the trust and recognition that member states have given Vietnam for its efforts and achievements in carrying out and promoting the Convention, as well as for its active role, strong standing, and growing credibility at UNESCO.
Quang Duc pottery is known for its wide range of forms, including wine bottles, jars, lime pots, vases, plant pots, incense burners and candle stands. Decorative motifs are equally rich, featuring mythical creatures, pastoral scenes, floral patterns, deer, peacocks, bats and more.
Vietnam’s cinematic appeal lies in its diverse settings, from terraced mountains and limestone karsts to bustling markets and ancient towns. Its mix of ethnic vibes, buzzing street life, and old traditions gives directors a goldmine for storytelling.
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Eight teams will join the tournament, divided into two groups. Group A features Vietnam, the Philippines, Sichuan Club (China), and Australia, while Group B consists of Vietnam U21, Korabelka Club (Russia), Taiwan (China), and U21 Thailand.
Despite strong home support and high expectations, Vietnam were unable to overcome the defending champions, who secured their third consecutive win over Vietnam in a regional final, following previous victories in 2014 and 2023.
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For the first time, Vietnamese audiences will have the opportunity to experience the ballet masterpiece "Don Quixote" in its original version by renowned choreographer Marius Petipa.
The contest carried deep meaning as it was the first time the life of Vietnamese women abroad had been highlighted as the central theme, said poet and writer Nguyen Quang Thieu, Chairman of the Vietnam Writers’ Association.
The event formed part of Vietnam’s ongoing campaign to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for the complex at the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, scheduled to take place in Paris in July.
Creative cultural festivals are fast emerging as a new catalyst for tourism development in Vietnam, as localities increasingly invest in these vibrant events on a more systematic and larger scale.
This marks the first time Vietnam has hosted a continental-level Muay event which will feature competitions across 28 weight categories in combat and eight performance categories.
Vietnamese players in a training session in Abu Dhabi on January 6 (Photo: VNA) 
