ASEAN Cup 2026: Coach Kim Sang Sik remains cautious, Malaysia not ready to surrender

According to a VNA reporter at the press conference, Vietnam coach Kim Sang Sik expressed satisfaction with the result despite the challenging away conditions, and congratulated his players for their full effort.

However, Kim also acknowledged that the team struggled to adapt to the pitch conditions and had tactical issues in the first half. He emphasized: "We consider this only the end of the first half of this tie. Even though we are leading 2-0, the whole team needs to recover quickly and prepare more thoroughly tactically to perform even better in the return leg."

Coach Kim Sang Sik also gave special praise to goalkeeper Patrick for his passion and ability to command the defense in this match.

Also at the press conference, striker Xuan Son expressed his happiness at scoring, reaffirming his dream of playing for the national team. He also admitted that the heavy pitch caused difficulties for the players in implementing their style of play, but stated that he always "patiently waits for opportunities and gives his all in the penalty area."

On the Malaysian side, coach Tan Cheng Hoe acknowledged the strength of the opponent but remained optimistic. He commented: "Vietnam has a very dangerous ability to transition. We lost focus on small details in the final minutes, leading to the goal we conceded."

Despite the defeat, coach Tan Cheng Hoe valued the experience gained by the young players, especially in feeling the pressure and accepting that mistakes are part of the game.

Looking ahead to the return leg, he stated: "We haven't lost the whole war yet, only a battle. There are still 90 minutes in Hanoi. We need to analyze our weaknesses, recover well, and be ready to challenge Vietnam on their home turf."

The second leg of the semifinal between Vietnam and Malaysia will take place three days later at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.