Indonesia’s unexpected loss to the Philippines in Group A several days ago has reshaped the group standings and handed coach Kim Sang-sik’s side a major advantage. Vietnam now need only a draw to secure a place in the semifinals, but the team have set sights on a win to reinforce their credentials and build momentum for the knockout stage.

Vietnam opened their campaign with a 2–1 win over Laos eight days ago. Although the margin was narrow, the match exposed weaknesses in midfield, prompting timely adjustments from the coaching staff. The squad received a boost as midfielder Xuan Bac was declared fit to return.

In Group B, Malaysia also beat Laos 4–1 but showed defensive frailties after conceding inside four minutes. The return of centre-back Ubaidullah Shamsul is expected to strengthen the back line. With Malaysia needing a victory to stay in contention, the team are likely to push forward and take more risks - a scenario that could leave space for Vietnam to exploit.

Vietnam are expected to continue with a flexible 3-4-3 system. Midfielders Quoc Cuong and Thai Son are set to anchor the centre, providing mobility and improved ball-winning. Coach Kim aims for controlled possession without overcommitting numbers forward, mindful of Malaysia’s pace on the break.

Malaysia’s most vulnerable area is their transition defence. When pushing high, they often leave large gaps behind their wing-backs, inviting opportunities for Vietnam’s quick and technical attackers such as Van Khang and Dinh Bac.

Playmaker Viktor Le is seen as Vietnam’s main source of creativity and long-range threat in the final third. Malaysia’s primary danger man is Hamimi Azim, who remains lethal in counterattacking situations.

Despite needing only a point, Vietnam are wary of playing for a draw, a strategy often considered risky. With a more stable lineup and stronger form, Vietnam hold the edge, though Malaysia’s urgency could produce an unpredictable contest if Vietnam lose concentration.

A convincing win would allow Vietnam to top the group and carry strong momentum into the semifinals, where any lapse could be costly. With solid preparation, a settled squad and clear intent, Vietnam enter the decisive match aiming for nothing less than victory and a direct route into the SEA Games semifinals.

SEA Games 33: First medal for Vietnam in Ju-jitsu

VOV.VN - Vietnamese athletes on December 10 secured their first medal in Ju-jitsu at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 33) that is getting underway in Thailand.