Vietnam denies ‘home advantages’ at SEA Games 2021

SEA Games 31 will be held in Hanoi in 2021. With the advantage of being the host country, the Vietnam Football Federation will have a decisive voice on the format of the men's football game next year.

Previously, some countries such as the Philippines or Malaysia have intentionally introduced some new rules to benefit the host team. However, General Secretary Le Hoai Anh affirmed that VFF will not intentionally bring advantages to U22 Vietnam and play fair with rivals.

Mr. Le Hoai Anh shared: "Two over-aged players depends on the meeting of the Southeast Asian Sports Council, which will take place in November or December.

Although being the host country and having certain priority rights, VFF will not make the most to turn it into an advantage for the U22 Vietnam team. VFF will aim to have a fair game in the role of host country SEA Games 31.”

In the 31st SEA Games, Park Hang-seo will lose most of the squad which won the historic gold medal in the Philippines. The only two remaining names are Doan Van Hau and Nguyen Van Toan.

The Korean strategist and his colleagues will have to build a new force for the campaign to defend the SEA Games championship at home. Despite difficulties, Vietnam is still considered as the No. 1 candidate for the gold medal.

Earlier, the leader of General Department of Sports and Physical Training, Mr. Tran Duc Phan said: "SEA Games 31 in Vietnam will focus on organizing sports in the Olympic system. In which, athletics and swimming, we will organize a full range of competitions despite the number of athletes.

We will create a fair playground, leaving a beautiful image with international friends. And there's nothing like bringing a lot of sports in group 3 to get lots of medals. "