Coach Kim Sang Sik: 'Vietnam Team Determined to Reach the Final'

Coach Kim Sang Sik praised Malaysia's power but stated that Vietnam has made careful preparations, possesses a solid lineup, and is committed to securing a good outcome in the away semifinal first leg.

Before the first-leg semifinal against host Malaysia, Coach Kim Sang Sik showed great respect for the opponent, while emphasizing that Vietnam's goal is to obtain a favorable result to pave the way for the journey to the final.

"We are honored to be in the semifinal. The whole team will give their best to repay the support and aim for the common goal of reaching the final. In the first match against Malaysia, we will try to achieve the best possible result," Coach Kim Sang Sik affirmed.

The South Korean coach stated that the nature of the semifinal round is completely different from the group stage. In particular, playing away from home requires the Vietnam team to maintain a high level of concentration.

"The two semifinal matches will not be easy. This one is also an away game, so we need to give our maximum effort to play well tomorrow. The players need to adapt to the new pitch. The Vietnam squad has no injuries and is in good physical condition," said Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Analyzing Malaysia's strengths, Coach Kim Sang Sik particularly noted the balance in the opponent's tactical approach.

"Malaysia usually uses a 4-4-2 formation, which shows good balance in their play. They are a strong team. We will try to analyze their weaknesses to prepare for tomorrow and hope for a positive result," said Coach Kim Sang Sik.

According to the Vietnam head coach, Malaysia currently possesses many players with good professional quality. However, he believes that a match is not decided solely by the ability of a few individuals.

"Malaysian players currently have good technical skills. The coaching staff and the whole team have thoroughly analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of each player. That is not a big issue, because football is not just about individuals but about the collective. I believe that tomorrow the Vietnam team will achieve a good result," emphasized Coach Kim Sang Sik.

When asked about Coach Tan Cheng Hoe, Mr. Kim stated that the upcoming encounter should be seen as a completely new match.

"Coach Tan Cheng Hoe had not been appointed when I last faced them, so it's hard to comment. This is a new match between Malaysia and Vietnam. Our goal is very clear: to get a good result. The players have high morale and motivation," shared Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Coach Kim Sang Sik also mentioned the past loss to Malaysia, but affirmed that result does not affect the preparation and mentality of the Vietnam team before the semifinal.

"Vietnam once lost to Malaysia, but that was when they violated the rules. So that result means nothing. We are not concerned about it and are only focusing on the semifinal with the best preparation.

Vietnam is honored to be in this round. We will try to score many goals and achieve a good result to reach the final," Coach Kim Sang Sik stated.

Looking back at the group stage journey, Coach Kim Sang Sik praised the fighting spirit and dedication of his players. According to him, carefully studying each opponent and making thorough preparations were key factors that helped Vietnam advance to the semifinal.

"In the group stage, every player gave their all, showing dedication and playing well. We analyzed each opponent thoroughly and prepared well for the next match. That is the reason we reached the semifinal.

But the group stage is completely different from the semifinal. In this round, the players have more motivation and prepare more carefully. The most important thing remains the dedication, relentless effort of the players, and the support of the fans.

The Vietnam team currently has an unbeaten run of 22 matches. This unbeaten streak is a commendable result and achievement. We must maintain and continue this record because it is part of history.

To do that, each player must give their maximum effort. The current record is good, but individual matches are more important. I want to use this foundation to continue improving the team and the players," emphasized Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Vietnam entered the semifinal as Group A winners, after beating Timor-Leste 7-0, drawing Singapore 0-0, defeating Indonesia 3-0, and winning against Cambodia 3-1. Meanwhile, Malaysia beat Myanmar 2-1, Laos 4-0, lost to Thailand 0-2, and defeated the Philippines 1-0 to finish second in Group B.