As the AFC Champions League 2024-2025 ramps up, the Ho Chi Minh City Women's Club stands at the threshold of a significant matchup against the renowned Abu Dhabi Country Club, a clash that draws global interest in women's football. The anticipation for this quarter-final encounter on March 22, 2025, at Thongnhat Stadium is palpable, with the stakes set high for the only Southeast Asian team remaining in the tournament.
On the evening of March 21, Coach Nguyen Hong Pham, alongside striker Huynh Nhu, shared their insights about facing a formidable opponent consisting of a diverse roster of twelve foreign players. This includes seven from Ghana, a Brazilian goalkeeper, an Algerian defender, a Ukrainian, and two forwards from Japan and Nepal. Their presence underscores the growing competitiveness of women's football in regions traditionally dominated by other powers.
Despite the strong foreign contingent on the Abu Dhabi team, the tournament's rules state that a maximum of six foreign players can participate per match, including one from Asia. Thus, the challenge for Ho Chi Minh lies not only in the skill of the opponents but also in adapting to the gameplay dynamics shaped by such regulations, as noted by Huynh Nhu, who expressed confidence in her team's preparation.
Huynh Nhu emphasized the team's thorough analysis of their opponents, stating, “We have carefully studied our opponents. The other team has many foreign players, they possess good skills and are a strong team.” Her sentiment reflects an awareness of the challenges posed by Abu Dhabi Country Club's impressive lineup, highlighting the need for strategic depth.
Moreover, Huynh Nhu believes that two foreign players and two Vietnamese teammates currently playing abroad will bolster their power. “We are trying to help them adapt. They are sociable after a period of adjusting to Vietnamese style and culture. The club does not focus on achievements; we are very confident when we step into this stage,” she added.
On the coaching side, Nguyen Hong Pham, stepping in as a replacement for Coach Doan Thi Kim Chi, reiterated the importance of psychological readiness. “This match is decisive, so the mindset is vital. We are trying to maintain calm throughout 90 minutes, even 120 minutes, and be ready for the penalty shootout,” he noted. The mental fortitude of the team could prove as critical as their physical preparation when they enter the high-stakes environment of knockout football.
HCMC Women's Club, while perhaps lesser-known on the broader Asian football stage, has demonstrated commendable resilience and skills through their performances. They recently secured victories against teams like Blue Whales and Odisha, which did much to uplift their stature despite the overwhelming odds they face. Their only defeat came against a strong Japanese side, Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies, in the final match last season.
With the quarter-final clash set for March 22, the pressure mounts. HCMC is poised to face significant challenges, but they have the opportunity to showcase their quality, with several key players expected to take the field, including Tu Thao, Chuong Thi Kieu, Phan Thi Trang, and Sabrina Kabrer. The anticipated starting lineup indicates a strong strategy aimed at exploiting weaknesses in the Abu Dhabi team's formation.
On the other hand, Abu Dhabi CC came through the group stages unexpectedly strong, finishing second behind Hyundai Steel and notably surpassing Wuhan Xinjiyuan, a top Chinese club, highlighting their capacity to upset predictions. Known for their astute investments in talent and infrastructure, they promise to put up a fierce fight.
The HCMC Women's Club has emerged as a beacon of hope, with an optimistic prediction of a 2-1 victory against their international rivals. Though the stakes are high, the team remains grounded, focusing not just on the outcome but on playing with heart and determination against a strong opponent.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, supporters can look forward to a thrilling evening of football, one that not only represents a pivotal moment for HCMC but also highlights the evolving landscape of women's football in Asia.
