ASEAN Cup 2026: How to Counter Indonesia’s ‘Trump Cards’

The biggest threat up front is Mitchell Baker. The 1.96-meter-tall striker made a perfect debut with a hat-trick against Cambodia, showcasing his positioning, quick one-touch finishing, and particular danger in aerial duels. Despite being only 20 years old, Baker has become the focal point of most of Indonesia’s attacks.

To neutralize this striker, coach Kim Sang Sik will likely rely on center-backs with strong dueling abilities like Thanh Chung, Viet Anh, Van Hau, or Xuan Manh, while maintaining a compact defensive shape to prevent Baker from exploiting spaces inside the box.

However, Baker is not the only dangerous link. Thom Haye is the real "brain" behind Indonesia’s play. The Dutch-born midfielder consistently makes a difference with his vision to create chances, precise set-piece deliveries, and ability to control the tempo of the game.

Partnering with Haye is Ivar Jenner, an energetic midfielder who handles most of the tackling, ball recovery, and defensive support. The combination of Haye and Jenner gives Indonesia’s midfield a balance between creativity and physical strength.

This poses a tough tactical puzzle for Vietnam. If only Hoang Duc and Quang Hai are deployed in the middle, the red-shirted team may lack a strong enough defensive midfielder to pressure Haye. Therefore, starting Thanh Long from the beginning is considered a reasonable option to limit the playmaker’s time on the ball.

Indonesia is not only strong through the center; they also have a dangerous right flank with Sandy Walsh and Eliano Reijnders. Walsh frequently pushes forward as an attacking full-back, while Reijnders stands out with his speed, dribbling, and unpredictable passes. When more creativity is needed, coach Herdman can also call on Beckham Putra, a technically gifted player with excellent ball control.

The trio of Walsh, Reijnders, and Beckham forms a potent attacking threat on the right, forcing Vietnam to strengthen that side if they want to avoid being exploited.

On the flip side, Indonesia’s left flank has yet to make a strong impression. This could be an avenue for Vietnam to attack, using the speed of Dinh Bac, Hoang Hen, or Tien Anh to put pressure on the home team’s defense.

If coach Kim Sang Sik’s side wants a positive result at Pakansari, they not only need to improve their finishing but also effectively neutralize Indonesia’s key trump cards. If they can shut down these important links, Vietnam’s chances of victory will become much brighter.