After much anticipation, the ASEAN Cup 2024 officially kicks off with the group stage on December 8, 2024. The Vietnam National Team is set to begin their quest for a third title with a match against Laos at 8:00 PM on December 9, 2024. This tournament is a significant event for the Southeast Asian football community, as the region’s top teams come together to compete for the prestigious title.
To officiate this important opening match, the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) has announced the appointment of the experienced South Korean referee, Ko Hyung Jin, as the main referee. Ko is a well-known figure in international football, particularly in Southeast Asia, and his involvement in this high-profile match is a testament to his skill and reputation.
Alongside Ko, the assistant referees for this match will be Kwak Seung Soon from South Korea and Yusri Mohamad from Malaysia. The match commissioner will be Kamil Zakaria Ismail, also from Malaysia. This team of officials brings a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that the match will be conducted fairly and smoothly. The appointment of top referees reflects the importance of the ASEAN Cup 2024 and the desire for high-quality officiating throughout the tournament.
Ko Hyung Jin is no stranger to the Vietnam national team or to Vietnamese clubs. He has a history of officiating in major tournaments involving Vietnam. Notably, he was the main referee for the first leg of the 2022 AFF Cup final between Vietnam and Thailand, which was held at My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi. This match, a crucial encounter in the tournament, was overseen by Ko, and his performance during that high-stakes final was widely praised.
In addition to his work with national teams, Ko has also been invited by the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) and Vietnam Professional Football (VPF) to officiate in V-League matches. His consistent appearances in various regional competitions demonstrate his extensive knowledge of football in Southeast Asia.
Earlier this year, Ko also officiated the quarter-final match of the 2024 AFC U23 Championship between U23 Vietnam and U23 Iraq, further cementing his status as a trusted referee in the region. His involvement in such prestigious events showcases his ability to manage matches at the highest level.
As the Vietnam national team prepares for their opening match against Laos, the team and their supporters can be confident that the match will be officiated by one of the most experienced referees in Asian football. This appointment highlights the significance of the ASEAN Cup 2024 and sets the stage for what is expected to be a thrilling tournament.
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