ASEAN Cup 2026: Vietnam Team Holds the Upper Hand, Malaysia Determined to Create a Surprise

According to a VNA correspondent in Kuala Lumpur, during the press conference on August 15, Vietnam head coach Kim Sang Sik stated that the team is in the best possible condition in terms of squad and fitness, with no players suffering from injuries.

Assessing Malaysia, the South Korean coach said that he has thoroughly studied the opponent's playing style, especially the highly balanced 4-4-2 formation. He affirmed that the Vietnam team will continue to analyze to find Malaysia's weaknesses and prepare as well as possible for the match.

Coach Kim Sang Sik did not want to place too much emphasis on the head-to-head history between the two teams, stressing that the upcoming semifinal is a completely new contest. He stated that Vietnam's goal is to achieve the best result; the 22-match unbeaten run is a proud achievement, but more importantly, the team must continue to strive for improvement.

Forward Xuan Son also described the encounter with Malaysia as always special. The striker believes that the opponent has a strong squad, especially in midfield and the wing positions. Although he is not particularly fond of the old "ginger grass" pitch at the away stadium, Xuan Son confirmed that this is not a major obstacle and that the entire team is focused on eating, resting, and recovering to reach peak form.

On Malaysia's side, coach Tan Cheng Hoe acknowledged that the home team faces some difficulties in terms of squad strength due to injuries and the fact that some players have had to return to their clubs. However, he believes that the combination of experienced players and young talents will help Malaysia create a competitive match against Vietnam.

Coach Tan Cheng Hoe assessed Vietnam as a strong team with fast attacking ability and good coordination. The Malaysian coach also recalled surprises that have occurred at the World Cup, such as Morocco or Saudi Arabia, to motivate his players. According to him, in football, there are always moments that can change the course of the match.

Malaysia defender Ubaidullah Shamsul Fazili believes that the semifinal is of special importance, even more so than a final. Although admitting that Malaysia is considered the underdog, the player stated that the home team will play with a relaxed mentality and strive to create a surprise against Vietnam.

Ubaidullah set a minimum target of a draw, but Malaysia's priority remains to win at home before traveling to Hanoi for the second leg. He also expressed confidence in his ability to coordinate with teammate Rodney in the defensive line to limit the attacking power of the Vietnam team.

The first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinal between Malaysia and Vietnam will take place at 21:00 local time on August 16, which is 20:00 the same day Vietnam time. This is a clash between the reigning champions with an unbeaten streak of 22 matches and Malaysia, a team determined to take advantage of home ground to create a surprise.