Vietnam booked their place in the final of the ASEAN Cup 2024 after defeating Singapore 3-1 in the second leg of the semifinals, sealing a 5-1 aggregate victory. Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed his pride in the team’s achievement, emphasizing the collective effort that led to this milestone.
“I am thrilled that Vietnam has made it to the final,” Coach Kim said during the post-match press conference at Viet Tri Stadium. “This result reflects the unwavering support of our fans, combined with the hard work, sweat, and dedication of the entire team throughout the six matches. Although we’ve reached the final, our clock does not stop here. We will continue striving for success. I have staked my entire football career on winning this championship.”
Vietnam Dominates with an Attacking Approach
Vietnam entered the home leg with a comfortable 2-0 advantage from the first match. Even with multiple tactical options available, Coach Kim fulfilled his pre-match promise of playing to win rather than defending the lead.
Facing strong resistance from Singapore, Vietnam broke the deadlock late in the first half through a penalty converted by Nguyen Xuan Son. In the 63rd minute, naturalized forward Huynh Cong Phuong doubled the lead with a close-range finish, capitalizing on Nguyen Hoang Duc’s assist. Although Singapore’s Kyoga Nakamura pulled one back, substitute Nguyen Tien Linh sealed the 3-1 victory with another successful penalty in the dying moments of the match.
This match marked the first time Vietnam scored in the first half during the tournament, a development that pleased Coach Kim. “The players were tense in the first half, but the opening goal helped them stabilize and perform better in the second half,” he said. He also praised the team’s defensive record, with only three goals conceded across six matches.
Challenges in Player Rotation
Addressing team selection, Coach Kim acknowledged the difficulties of leaving some players on the bench, including striker Pham Tuan Hai. “This is the hardest part of being a coach,” he admitted. “All players have worked hard and prepared diligently, but not everyone can play. We always aim to field the best 11 for each match. For the final, I will analyze the opponent and, if suitable, I hope to give Tuan Hai a chance to play.”
Vietnam’s Fifth ASEAN Cup Final Appearance
With an aggregate victory of 5-1, Vietnam has reached the ASEAN Cup final for the fifth time in the tournament’s history. The team previously finished as runners-up in 1998 and 2022 and claimed the title in 2008 and 2018.
Vietnam will face the winner of the other semifinal between Thailand and the Philippines. The first leg saw the Philippines stun Thailand 2-1 at home, with the return leg scheduled for December 30 in Thailand.
Coach Kim stated that he will closely follow the Thailand-Philippines match but remains focused on his team’s preparation. “We already have plans in place, and regardless of the opponent, we will analyze them thoroughly and play our game to strive for the championship,” he asserted.
The ASEAN Cup 2024 final promises to be an exciting showdown as Vietnam aims to lift the trophy for the third time in its history.
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