Ninh Binh, 31 March 2026 – Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed satisfaction after Vietnam defeated Malaysia 3–1 in the final match of Group F in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification on the evening of March 31.
At Thien Truong Stadium, Vietnam took an early lead in the 6th minute through a close-range header from Do Duy Manh. Early in the second half, Nguyen Xuan Son completed a brace with two headers in the 51st and 59th minutes.
“The match went as planned. I must praise the goals from Duy Manh and Xuan Son,” Coach Kim said at the post-match press conference. “The defense also stayed focused throughout to secure the win. I would also like to thank the passionate support from the fans.”
The Korean coach noted that Thien Truong created one of the best atmospheres he has experienced since arriving in Vietnam. Before the match, he had targeted a 2–0 victory and remained pleased with a similarly convincing result.
Vietnam finished the Group F qualifiers with a perfect record of six wins, scoring 17 goals and conceding just two. In addition to qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, the team extended a Southeast Asian record with 13 consecutive victories.
“We will continue working to develop and make the team stronger,” Kim added. “That depends on competition in every position. I will also keep searching for quality players to improve squad depth.”
Against Malaysia, Brazil-born naturalized midfielder Do Hoang Hen made his second consecutive start and impressed with an assist for Xuan Son’s goal. After being tested in multiple roles during the 3–0 friendly win over Bangladesh, Coach Kim confirmed that the 1994-born player is best suited as a right forward. His combination with Xuan Son showed promise and will continue to be developed.
The match also marked Doan Van Hau’s first start under Coach Kim, while Tran Dinh Trong made his debut off the bench, replacing captain Do Duy Manh. Young forward Nguyen Tran Viet Cuong and U23 center-back Nguyen Nhat Minh were also given opportunities to feature.
“As a coach, I’m happy to have these players. They give me more options in every position, and I have high expectations for their future performances,” Kim said.
Following this match, the next national team gathering is scheduled for June. However, Vietnam is expected not to convene in that period, allowing space for the 2025–2026 V.League 1 season, before a longer training camp to prepare for the ASEAN Cup 2026, set to take place from July 24 to August 26.
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