Thailand go hot and cold over AFF Vietnam game

Thailand is expecting cold weather but a hot crowd reception when it plays Vietnam in Hanoi's My Dinh Stadium in the first leg of their 2007 ASEAN Football Federation Championship semi-final. "The weather in Hanoi is too cold for us and we have only had a few days to get used to it," manager Thavatchai Sanjakul told ESPN. "I have been all over the world and I have to say that the Vietnamese fans are probably the best cheering squad in the world," he said. "We have never beaten Vietnam in Hanoi and although we are technically strong with this and the weather I wouldn't be surprised if we lose tomorrow. The result of this match is very important for both teams and of course I will be very happy if we win but if we don't we will understand as Vietnamese football is very strong."

However Vietnam are well aware of the strength in depth of their opponents. "We know that Thailand is one of the top teams in South East Asia. We understand their level and we respect that," said Mai Duc Chung, Vietnam's assistant coach. "The match will be fierce and I believe both teams will go all out for a win. We will learn a lot from this game and we know we must try hard to get victory."


UPDATE (25 Jan)

Thailand defeated Vietnam 2-0 away in the first leg of their AFF Championship semifinals. The second leg takes place on Sunday in Bangkok.