After forcing China to a goalless draw in the opening match of their AFC U-23 Championship qualifiers, Cambodia U-23 are ready to face giants Japan on Friday’s battle.
In the post-match conference, while stating the poor condition of the pitch in the Olympic Stadium, China coach Massimiliano Maddaloni also valued the playing tactics of the home team.
“I respect Cambodia and, especially in midfield, they put us under a lot of pressure throughout the game,” Maddaloni said, as quoted by Phnom Penh Post.
Moreover, the Italian coach warned the pressure that the defending champions Japan would face in the clash against the Leonardo Vittorino’s side.
“Even Japan will face lots of difficulties against them, I am sure,” Maddaloni concluded, giving Cambodia plenty of inspiration to fight hard.
On the other hand, Cambodia team head coach Vittorino acknowledged that it was a strong team effort by Cambodia that helped them fight on level terms with China. He called for a similar or even stronger commitment from the players to overcome the tough task on Friday.