ASEAN Cup 2026: AFC points out Vietnam's advantages ahead of the big clash with Malaysia

AFC emphasized that the 'Golden Star Warriors' have extra confidence thanks to their superior record against Malaysia, winning 5 and drawing 1 in their last 6 encounters. Meanwhile, Malaysia aims to use home advantage to overcome defending champions Vietnam, thereby returning to the ASEAN Cup final for the first time since 2018.

AFC also praised Vietnam's performance in the group stage of ASEAN Cup 2026. Coach Kim Sang Sik's squad topped Group A, dropping only 2 points and scoring 13 goals, thereby continuing to show their status as one of the top contenders for the title. According to AFC, Vietnam is on the right track in their title defense journey, while Malaysia will have to maximize home advantage when hosting the reigning champions in the first leg of the semifinal.

In the other semifinal pairing, AFC rates Thailand higher than Singapore after the 'War Elephants' impressive group stage performance. Thailand won all matches: 5-0 against Laos, 2-0 against Malaysia, 1-0 against Philippines, and 2-0 against Myanmar. Meanwhile, Singapore also impressed by remaining unbeaten in Group A with 2 wins and 2 draws, thus becoming a tough opponent for Thailand.

AFC noted that Thailand (7-time ASEAN Cup champions) and Vietnam (reigning champions) are the two higher-rated teams after their convincing group stage performances. However, Malaysia and Singapore will rely on home advantage to aim for favorable results in the first leg, setting the stage for the race to reach the final.

Vietnam and Indonesia were once considered the top two candidates in Group A before the tournament started. However, Indonesia did not perform as expected and lost to Vietnam in a crucial match, causing the team to exit early.

Meanwhile, Malaysia was not highly rated before the tournament due to squad difficulties and the head coach position. However, under the guidance of interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe, the team performed well and secured a semifinal spot after a crucial win over the Philippines.

The first leg of the semifinal between Vietnam and Malaysia will take place on the evening of August 16 at Kuala Lumpur Stadium, before the two teams meet in the second leg in Hanoi.