Vietnam’s national team heads into their fourth match of Group B at the ASEAN Cup 2024 against the Philippines with confidence and control. The match is scheduled for 8 PM on December 18 at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
After two straight victories—a 4-1 win over Laos and a 1-0 triumph over Indonesia—Vietnam leads Group B with 6 points. Indonesia trails with 4 points, followed by the Philippines and Laos with 2 points each, while Myanmar sits at the bottom with just 1 point. Despite the current standings, all five teams theoretically remain in contention for the two semi-final spots, though Laos has the slimmest chance due to their limited fixtures.
For Vietnam, their stellar form and maximum points from two matches place them firmly on the brink of qualification. A victory over the Philippines will guarantee top spot in Group B and a ticket to the semi-finals, even before the final match against Myanmar. This scenario allows Coach Kim Sang Sik and his squad to manage their resources strategically for the knockout stages.
Even if Vietnam avoids defeat against the Philippines, a draw coupled with a positive result in their final fixture will still ensure group dominance. This gives Vietnam significant flexibility, with their fate very much in their own hands.
The Philippines’ Unpredictable Performance
The Philippines remains a wildcard in the ASEAN Cup. Traditionally, the team attracts curiosity due to their mix of foreign-born players and talent developed in European clubs. However, instability in their managerial position has hindered their growth. Since the AFF Cup 2022, the Philippines has seen five different head coaches, leading to a lack of consistency and cohesion.
Under Coach Albert Capellas, the Philippines is fielding a weakened squad at the ASEAN Cup 2024. Key stars such as Gerrit Holtmann (Bochum, Bundesliga) and other regulars like Neil Etheridge, Daisuke Sato, and Kevin Ingreso are absent due to club commitments, as the tournament does not fall during FIFA Days. This has forced the Philippines to rely on a secondary squad that struggled to perform in their opening fixtures.
The Philippines managed two draws—1-1 against Myanmar and 2-2 with Laos. While flashes of good football were evident, recurring defensive errors and inconsistent performances throughout 90 minutes remain their Achilles’ heel.
Vietnam’s Opportunity
For Vietnam, this match presents an opportunity to capitalize on the Philippines’ shortcomings. The squad, buoyed by their crucial win over Indonesia, has momentum and the psychological advantage. Despite facing the challenge of an artificial pitch at Rizal Memorial, Vietnam has prior experience training under similar conditions during their camp in South Korea.
Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized the importance of this fixture, aiming for an early qualification to provide flexibility in their final group-stage match. He also reassured that the team is well-prepared to adapt to the playing surface and maintain their strong form.
With Quang Hai and his teammates determined to secure victory, the stage is set for Vietnam to consolidate their position as group leaders and confidently advance to the semi-finals.
The match kicks off at 8 PM on December 18 and will be broadcast live. Fans can follow the action closely as Vietnam looks to continue their winning streak and edge closer to ASEAN Cup glory.
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