While the Singapore team is stepping up preparations at home, neighboring Singapore is also actively adjusting its strategy. After an unfavorable match against Thailand, Coach Takashi Nishitani was asked to leave his post, and Japanese coach Mian Ogura took over the baton. Behind this change, Takashi Nishitani's communication barrier - his lack of English ability - became the trigger for the change of coach, while Veng Ogura's fluent English was seen as an advantage.
On his debut in the job, Makoto Ogura called up 26 players, including Ilhan Vandy, with eight overseas players from different leagues. Ilhan's brothers, who now play for Pathum United in the Thai Premier League, also traveled with the team. Singapore have a solid record in their last 12 matches, and despite meeting South Korea and Thailand in the 36-team tournament, Kokura reluctantly tuned in that the team will focus on themselves and strive to win every match.
National football team's mentality adjustment pays off
On March 17th, China's national soccer team announced its 26-man roster, with Li Ke and Li Shuai failing to make the cut for reasons. Li Ke and Xie Wenneng missed out for their own reasons, while Li Ang and Zhao Bo also dropped out due to stiff competition for other positions. Nonetheless, Ickerson's return has instilled confidence in the team, and Coach Ivan said that even if Ickerson only plays for a short period of time, he can still have a positive impact on the team.
Tactical indoctrination of the small hamlet
During the training in Shenzhen, Coach Ivan made full use of the limited time to teach his players tactical theories through short meetings and practical drills. He was satisfied with the players' understanding and emphasized the importance of mentality adjustment for the Chinese team. In a relaxed atmosphere, the players showed a basic grasp of Ivan's tactical philosophy.
Tactical and personnel adjustments
Coach Ivan set up a 442 formation for the National Football League, emphasizing the flexibility and speed of the wingers on the side without the ball. In terms of staffing, he is considering keeping the stability of the front and back line, while taking into account the recovery of Ackerson. The midfield becomes key, with players such as Wang Shangyuan, Wu Xi and Li Yuanyi likely to be at the center of the rebuilt midfield. The choice between Xie Pengfei and Wei Shihao and Lin Liangming will also affect the layout of the left and right forwards of the national soccer team.
The Future of National Football
Under Ivan's leadership, the national soccer team is gradually moving towards reconstruction. The midfield position has become the key, how to reasonably allocate personnel will be a big challenge for Coach Ivan. At the same time, the training and selection of young players is also related to the future development of the national football team. On the stage of the league, the performance of the players will directly affect the competitiveness of the national football team in Asia and even on the world stage.
