Bogor, 2 August 2026 – Coach Kim Sang-sik has acknowledged the difficult challenge awaiting his side but remains fully confident they can secure a vital victory over Indonesia in one of the biggest matches of the ASEAN Cup 2026 group stage.
Vietnam will travel to Pakansari Stadium to face hosts Indonesia on August 3 in a decisive Group A encounter that could determine which team advances to the semifinals. With both nations still firmly in contention for a knockout-stage berth, the clash is expected to be one of the tournament’s most intense and closely contested fixtures.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Kim made it clear that his team has only one objective.
“Tomorrow’s match is extremely important for our hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Therefore, Vietnam must win,” the South Korean tactician stated.
Kim admitted that playing away from home against one of Southeast Asia’s strongest teams would not be easy, especially with tens of thousands of Indonesian supporters expected to create a hostile atmosphere. However, he believes his players are mentally prepared for the occasion.
“We know it will be difficult playing away and dealing with the pressure of the home crowd. However, we will give everything on the pitch and fight with maximum determination to achieve our goal of winning the match,” he said.
The Vietnam coach also reflected on his team’s frustrating goalless draw against Singapore in the previous round, a result that left the Golden Star Warriors with work to do in the race for the semifinals.
“We produced plenty of opportunities against Singapore but couldn’t score, which was very disappointing. We want to respond to that frustration with a strong performance and a positive result tomorrow.”
Despite the missed chances, Kim insisted the draw has not affected his squad’s confidence. Instead, he believes the team has learned valuable lessons and is fully focused on delivering a stronger display against Indonesia.
Kim praised Indonesia’s attacking quality, describing Patrick Kluivert’s side as dangerous in several aspects of the game.
“Indonesia have a very dangerous attack. Their forwards are physically strong, technically gifted, and capable of finishing in many different ways.”
However, the Vietnam boss is equally confident in his own defense, which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament after recording three consecutive clean sheets.
“Our defense has not conceded in the last three matches, so the players are full of confidence.”
Kim emphasized that defensive success comes from collective effort rather than relying solely on the backline.
“Defending is never the responsibility of one player alone. It depends on the coordination and commitment of the entire team.”
Preparation has also been a key focus for Vietnam’s coaching staff ahead of the crucial encounter. Kim revealed that his analysts have thoroughly examined Indonesia’s recent performances, including their friendly against Mozambique, to identify tactical strengths and weaknesses.
“We have carefully studied Indonesia’s recent matches and also watched their game against Mozambique to better understand how they play and prepare the right tactical approach.”
Although he acknowledged that Indonesia will enjoy home advantage and greater familiarity with the playing conditions, Kim stressed that Vietnam’s own performance will be the decisive factor.
“The most important thing is our own preparation and the mentality we bring onto the pitch.”
Goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang echoed his coach’s determination, describing the match as a must-win if Vietnam are to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
“Tomorrow’s match is extremely important if we want to qualify for the next round. We know we have to win.”
The goalkeeper also insisted Vietnam’s focus is on Indonesia as a complete team rather than any individual star.
“We respect Indonesia, but we aren’t concentrating on one particular player. Our focus is on their collective strength.”
Le Giang added that representing Vietnam remains the greatest honor of his career.
“Wearing the national team jersey is the greatest honor for me. My goal is always to give everything for the team and bring joy to our supporters.”
With confidence shared throughout the squad and the coaching staff, Vietnam head into the decisive showdown determined to bounce back from their draw against Singapore. A victory at Pakansari Stadium would significantly strengthen their chances of reaching the ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinals, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the tournament’s defining matches.
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