Ninh Binh, 30 March 2026 – Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed confidence that Vietnam and his players will settle the score after their 0–4 defeat to Malaysia, ahead of the final matchday in Group F of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification.
“We are aiming for victory, ideally 2–0,” Coach Kim said at today’s press conference (March 30). “All the players are in good physical condition, and I believe they will perform well on the pitch tomorrow.”
Vietnam previously lost 0–4 to Malaysia in the first leg at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on June 10, 2025. However, the result was later overturned to a 3–0 win for Vietnam after Malaysia was found to have fielded seven naturalized players using falsified documents. Malaysia was also handed a 0–3 loss against Nepal, despite originally winning 2–0, for the same reason. These decisions helped Vietnam rise to the top of the group and secure qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
According to Coach Kim, although the Asian Football Confederation delivered its ruling somewhat late, it was the correct decision. Nevertheless, he admitted that the 0–4 defeat in the first leg remains unacceptable and hopes it will serve as strong motivation for the rematch.
Beyond targeting a win, Coach Kim believes that having already qualified for the Asian Cup finals allows his players to compete with greater freedom. The coaching staff can also begin preparing for upcoming objectives, including the ASEAN Cup 2026 and the finals in Saudi Arabia.
Regarding Malaysia’s strong desire to defeat Vietnam as a way to restore pride after the naturalization scandal, Coach Kim acknowledged he is aware of the situation. However, the 1976-born coach remains confident due to his team’s current form. “The whole team will give everything, without stepping back, to deliver a great performance at home,” he said.
Historically, Vietnam holds a clear advantage, having not lost to Malaysia since the second leg of the 2014 AFF Cup semi-finals (now the ASEAN Cup). Over the past 20 years, Vietnam has lost only two matches, while recording 13 wins and two draws against Malaysia.
Coach Kim’s side is also setting a Southeast Asian record with a 12-match winning streak. Their most recent defeat came against Thailand, 1–2, in a friendly in September 2024. Since then, they have gone unbeaten in 16 matches, with 14 victories.
In terms of squad strength, Vietnam is further boosted by the return of Nguyen Xuan Son, Tran Dinh Trong, and Doan Van Hau from injury, along with newcomer Do Hoang Hen. Meanwhile, Malaysia will be without the seven ineligible naturalized players. When asked about this contrast, Coach Kim noted that Vietnam is also missing key figures such as striker Nguyen Dinh Bac. “Regardless of the squad, we are fully focused on winning and remain highly confident,” he emphasized.
Kim Tuyen
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