In the semifinal, Vietnam staged a comeback to beat the Philippines 2–1, with powerful headers from Dinh Bac and Xuan Bac proving decisive. The match once again highlighted Vietnam’s aerial prowess, with their cross-and-header approach likely to be a key tactic in the final.

While concerns remain over finishing and cohesion in certain phases of play, Vietnam have shown resilience and tactical discipline to reach the final. Against both Cambodia and the Philippines, coach Kim Sang-sik’s men conceded goals but maintained composure and executed their strategy to secure victories.

Vietnam’s path to the final has been relatively smooth. They entered the tournament later than most teams and faced comparatively easier group opponents - Laos and Cambodia. Although the Philippines showed improvements in the semifinals, they were not considered as formidable as Indonesia or Thailand.

Key players Van Khang, Anh Quan, and especially goal-scorer Dinh Bac are expected to play vital roles. However, perseverance will be essential. Indonesia, backed by a home crowd, are likely to apply high pressing and dictate the tempo, requiring Vietnam to stay compact and withstand intense pressure.

On the other side, Indonesia topped their group and produced a thrilling comeback against Thailand in the semifinal, equalising through Jans Raven before winning in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Although Vietnam’s performances have faced some criticism, Indonesia have not been entirely convincing either. Despite their physical strength and modern playing style, they laboured against both the Philippines and Malaysia in the group stage. Star striker Jans Raven leads the tournament in scoring, but six of his seven goals came against a weak Brunei side.

Nonetheless, Indonesia’s stamina poses a real challenge for Vietnam. Despite having played four matches—including a grueling 120-minute semifinal—the hosts have consistently demonstrated remarkable endurance. They are likely to control possession in the final, though they may adopt a more defensive stance if the score remains level in the latter stages of the match.

Containing Indonesia’s attacking threats, especially Jans Raven, will be a top priority for Vietnam’s defenders. While the Indonesians have struggled with finishing, it is risky to expect those issues to persist in a final.

Indonesia’s rise in recent years has been fueled by revamped youth development policies and the inclusion of naturalized players. Still, history favours Vietnam - In their last seven encounters at the U23 level, Vietnam have won six times, while Indonesia have managed just one victory. Even in the 2023 final where Indonesia pushed the match to penalties, Vietnam still prevailed.

Despite home advantage and a talented squad, Indonesia are still vulnerable, especially in front of goal. Thailand created several clear chances in the semifinal and were unlucky not to win in regulation time.

If Vietnam stay disciplined and capitalise on their opportunities, a third U23 title is well within reach, even if the match goes into extra time.

AFF to apply VAR in Vietnam-Indonesia final at ASEAN U23 Championship

VOV.VN - The ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) has confirmed that VAR technology will be used for the first time in the final of the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship (Mandiri Cup™) between Vietnam and Indonesia, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on July 29 at the 78,000-seat Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.