Data analysis post-match: Vietnam national team needs to focus on improving pressing to maintain form

Data analysis post-match: Vietnam national team needs to focus on improving pressing to maintain form. In the context of the 2026 V-League season with many surprises, a recent match made fans ponder the tactical execution of football clubs. Vietnam national team, with stars like Nguyen Quang Hai, Tran Van Kien and young promising players, had an impressive performance in some matches. However, through data lenses, we can see that maintaining their form requires special attention to tactical metrics such as pressing intensity and possession percentage. Initial analysis shows that in recent matches, Vietnam national team faced difficulties against high pressing from opponents, leading to frequent losses of possession in midfield. Based on data collected from matches, pressing success rate only reached about 45% in away games, lower than the league average. This indicates that to progress, the team needs to build a more effective pressing system, focusing on applying pressure from the first half and not allowing opponents to control the match rhythm. The current phase of the league is very complex as teams like Hanoi FC, TP.HCM City or newly promoted clubs are fiercely competing for the top positions. Vietnam national team, as the strongest team, is often expected to have good results in international friendly matches and regional competitions. However, implementing pressing tactics requires good coordination between players, especially the support from full-backs when dropping to press. Core Insight: Data shows pressing is a decisive factor, but execution needs flexibility. In the recent match, Vietnam won 2-1, but xG only reached 1.8, suggesting they could have created more chances if pressing is improved. Advanced metrics like PPDA also indicate the team needs to reduce gaps between lines to increase pressing. Contrarian Angle: Contrary to the common belief that pressing is the key to success, in reality many big clubs are reducing reliance on pure pressing to avoid fatigue, shifting to possession-based play models. Vietnam national team should learn from European teams, where pressing is combined with counter-pressing to avoid exhaustion. If pressing is pursued mechanically, they risk dropping points in important matches, especially with the dense schedule with regional and international competitions. Takeaway: To maintain form, Vietnam national team needs to adjust tactics towards hybrid, combining pressing with ball control. Coaches should increase training on high-speed pressing, while focusing on the physical condition of key players like Nguyen Quang Hai. This not only helps improve on-field results but also strengthens the team's position in the eyes of sponsors and fans.