Vietnam determined to beat Indonesia in decisive ASEAN Cup match
VOV.VN - Head coach Kim Sang Sik and goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang have expressed high determination as Vietnam prepare for a must-win ASEAN Cup 2026 Group A clash against hosts Indonesia at Pakansari Stadium on August 3.
National squad touch down in Indonesia for ASEAN Cup clash
VOV.VN - The Vietnamese national team assembled in Bogor on August 1 after a six-hour transit from Hanoi, shifting focus to their key ASEAN Cup 2026 Group A fixture against host nation Indonesia at Pakansari Stadium.
Vietnam held to goalless draw by Singapore in ASEAN Cup
VOV.VN - Defending champions Vietnam were held to a 0-0 draw by Singapore at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi on July 31 despite dominating possession and firing 22 shots, missing the chance to strengthen their position in ASEAN Cup 2026 Group A.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, coach Kim emphasized the critical nature of the fixture following a frustrating draw against Singapore.
"Tomorrow's match is crucial for us to qualify for the next round. Vietnam must win," Kim said. "Despite the immense pressure of playing away, we will fight with the highest spirit to achieve our goal."
Analyzing the opponents, the 47-year-old South Korean strategist respected Indonesia's attacking strength, noting their tall structure and versatile finishing after reviewing their matches, including a recent fixture against Mozambique. However, he expressed full confidence in Vietnam's defence, which has kept three consecutive clean sheets.
"Defending is not the duty of any single individual, but a coordinated effort across all lines," Kim added.
Ahead of the match, Vietnam held their familiarization training session at Pakansari Stadium on the afternoon of August 2. Striker Dinh Bac and defender Doan Van Hau drew great attention from local media, while the return of forward Tai Loc from injury provides coach Kim with vital tactical options alongside naturalized striker Xuan Son.
Goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang echoed his manager's resolve, stressing that the squad is fully focused on a collective performance rather than individual opponents.
"Wearing the national jersey is the highest honor," Le Giang said. "Our goal is to give everything on the pitch and secure the victory our fans deserve."
The high-stakes match between Indonesia and Vietnam will kick off at 8:30 p.m. on August 3.
