Kim Sang-sik cautious ahead of 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship
VOV.VN - Head coach Kim Sang-sik of the Vietnam U23 national team has expressed caution before the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship, acknowledging the increasing competitiveness of the tournament.
As defending champions, he said, Vietnam U23 are under pressure and must be thoroughly prepared, especially with strong opponents like Thailand and Indonesia.
At a press briefing on July 15, Kim admitted his players feel some pressure, having won the last two editions of the tournament. Unlike previous years, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has sent its strongest squad, with Kim himself directly taking charge instead of assigning an interim coach. The team’s clear objective is to retain the title.
“We will give it our all and train hard to achieve the best possible results. We treat every match like a final. Our mindset is to play each game with maximum determination,” said the Korean tactician.
According to the coach, the team’s ultimate goal is the 2025 SEA Games in December.
“I hope this tournament will serve as a good preparation for more important events. While I’ve only coached senior national teams before, this is my first time working with a U23 side. These young players are passionate, receptive, and improving every day.”
He also had words of respect for Thailand and Indonesia that are Vietnam’s two main opponents at the tournament.
“Thailand have many technically skilled players, while Indonesia stand out for their physical strength. Both are tough opponents who will be strong contenders for the title,” Kim remarked.
Interestingly, he made no mention of Malaysia, despite Vietnam’s recent heavy defeat to them at senior level.
The 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship began July 15 in Jakarta and Bekasi, Indonesia. Vietnam play in Group B alongside Cambodia and Laos and will sit out the opening matchday. This scheduling allows Vietnam extra time to observe and analyse their group opponents.
According to the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), only the top team in each group and the best second-placed team will advance to the semifinals. In the case of tied points, head-to-head results will determine rankings.
FPT Play holds exclusive broadcasting rights for the tournament in Vietnam. Fans can watch all U23 Vietnam matches live via the FPT Play app, website, or the FPT Bóng đá Việt YouTube channel.
Vietnam Television also broadcast lives all 16 matches of the tournament on three channels of the national TV broadcaster - VTV5, VTV7, and VTV Can Tho.
Kim Sang-sik finalizes 23-man squad for 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship
VOV.VN - Head coach Kim Sang-sik on July 12 announced the final 23-player roster for the Vietnam U23 national team to compete at the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship (Mandiri Cup™), following the exclusion of five players.
