In the 4-2 Asian Cup first-round loss to Japan, goalie Nguyen Filip said Vietnam might not have given up the third goal if he had held the ball longer.

When the score was 2-2 in the third minute of injury time in the first half, Filip attempted a long goal kick to the other side, but his teammate misplaced the ball, allowing Japan to launch an attack. The ball was received by Kaito Nakamura at the edge of the box, and his shot curled into the upper corner.

Following the game at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Filip expressed regret for giving up four goals, particularly the third one. In order to give my teammates a little more time to recover, I ought to have held onto the ball longer.

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I might have rushed things. Without this play, there might have been a draw in the first half and increased pressure on Japan in the second.”

Filip received praise for his work from coach Philippe Troussier.

After completing his naturalisation process last year, the 31-year-old custodian made at least four outstanding saves in his debut for the Vietnam national team.

Vietnam performed admirably despite the defeat, especially in light of the fact that their opponents are 77 spots higher in the FIFA rankings and were in the greatest form globally heading into the Sunday game with 10 straight victories, 45 goals scored, and just five goals allowed.

“I was disappointed to lose this match, but also very proud that the team played well against the top team on the continent,” Filip said. We managed to get ahead for a while, but we were unable to hold it. No matter what happens, I’m always pleased with my teammates.

The team’s objective, to advance past the group stage, is still the same, the Vietnamese Czech custodian reiterated. They must win four points in their next two games against Indonesia on January 19 and Iraq on January 24 in order to accomplish that.