Vietnam National Team and Their Statement of Class Ahead of the AFF Cup

Vietnam National Team wrapped up the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers with a 3-1 win against Malaysia, a game that showcased dominant class while providing worthwhile takeaways.

The victory at Thien Truong Stadium was not unexpected considering the strength and form of both sides. Even data from WinComparator indicated Vietnam's win probability reached 69.19%, while Malaysia had only 15.75%. However, the notable aspect was not the result, but how Coach Kim Sang Sik's team created a dominant game flow and displayed a clear identity.

Vietnam National Team was ready for changes compared to the friendly match where they defeated Bangladesh 3-0 on March 26. Coach Kim Sang Sik started Nguyen Filip instead of Van Lam, deployed Van Hau, Viet Anh, and Jason Quang Vinh from the beginning, and had Tuan Hai on the bench, bringing Xuan Son in to pair with Hoang Hen and Hai Long.

From the first half, the home team completely controlled the match with coherent ball circulation. The opening goal came from a set-piece situation, which has become a "specialty" under Coach Kim Sang Sik. The "crossing machine" Tien Anh delivered a precise corner kick for Do Duy Manh to head in the goal. That was not just a goal, but proof of meticulous preparation.

In the second half, the game flow became even clearer as Xuan Son shone brilliantly with a header double from two quality crosses by Hoang Hen and Tien Anh. Xuan Son's performance not only showed class but was also a perfect response to previous doubts.

The Nam Dinh forward gifted himself a meaningful birthday present with an explosive performance and emotional celebration images. Xuan Son answered the doubts with a classy double, deserving expectations right on his familiar home ground. If luckier, his teammates Hoang Hen, Quang Hai, and Hoang Duc could also have scored against the opponent in this match.

Another highlight belonged to Tien Anh. The right-back from Ninh Bình became increasingly impressive, showing his role as a "set-up provider" on the right flank with highly accurate crosses.

Meanwhile, Hoang Hen, though not scoring, contributed significantly to the overall play, creating connections and breakthroughs. This is a positive signal for Vietnam's attack in the long journey ahead.

However, this victory was not entirely flawless. Around the last 20 minutes of the match, Van Hau's lack of concentration and the defensive line led to a penalty and the consolation goal by Endrick Dos Santos. That moment left Coach Kim Sang Sik dissatisfied, as it reflected a focus issue, which is critical in major tournaments.

On Malaysia's side, the visiting team "revealed their true form" without the ineligible naturalized players. Malaysia lacked stability and composure to make a difference, despite having quite a few good players in their actual lineup. Malaysia remains haunted by Vietnamese football, unable to defeat "The Golden Star Warriors" for 12 years since the AFF Cup 2014.

The 3-1 victory thus carries more significance than just a procedural match. It affirms Vietnam National Team's status, showing stability under Coach Kim Sang Sik with a streak of 13 wins, a record in regional football.

Vietnam completed the qualifiers with 18 points, entering the finals unbeaten. But it also reminds that there are still details to refine. With just two more matches, the Korean coach will surpass the unbeaten record of former coach Park Hang Seo.