Kim Sang Sik wants to defeat South Korea at least once while coaching Vietnam. In a Korean media interview reported by Dan Tri, he linked that ambition to his broader task of helping Vietnam compete on the Asian stage.
The objective has personal significance for a South Korean coach, but his comments also addressed responsibility, player motivation and the options available to strengthen the national team.
Following Park Hang Seo's achievements
Kim described the pressure of building on the results achieved by compatriot Park Hang Seo. Dan Tri reported that he feels a strong responsibility to continue that work and maintain a positive image for a Korean coach in Vietnam.
Bong da 24h's account placed the discussion against Park's 2018 AFF Cup title and the runner-up finish at the 2018 Asian U23 Championship. Those past achievements help explain the expectations around the current coach.
Kim identified winning the players' trust as a major challenge. Players who have already experienced success need fresh motivation and new objectives, he said in the interview as relayed by Dan Tri.
Desire alongside tactical work
The coach considers tactics important while also emphasising determination and competitive desire. He wants his players ready to face strong Asian opponents.
Kim also believes overseas Vietnamese and naturalised players can contribute to greater competitiveness. For the Asian Cup, he intends to prepare with the mindset of a challenger.
His stated ambition now accompanies the team's continuing preparation. Supporters can follow Vietnam national team fixtures as the next stages of that work develop.