Coach Kim Sang Sik: 'Vietnam team came to Indonesia to win'

Coach Kim Sang Sik confirmed that the Vietnam team did not travel to Indonesia intending to secure a single point; instead, they are aiming for a win to significantly boost their chances of reaching the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 semifinals.

The South Korean coach assessed this match as decisive for the race to advance to the next round.

"The match against Indonesia is extremely important, as it will determine the ticket to the next round. Our goal is to secure a victory. This is an away game for the Vietnam team, so it will be very challenging. However, the entire squad is highly motivated to achieve a win," shared Coach Kim Sang Sik.

He acknowledged that the draw against Singapore has added extra pressure on the Vietnam team.

"In the match against Singapore, we created many scoring opportunities but failed to convert them. If we had won, planning for the away trip to Indonesia would have been easier, but the draw has put a bit of pressure on us.

After that game, the whole team has prepared well, and we will respond with our performance on the field against Indonesia. This is our first time playing at Pakansari Stadium, and the current weather conditions are quite favorable."

Coach Kim Sang Sik stated that the coaching staff has thoroughly analyzed Indonesia's playing style and holds midfielder Thom Haye in high regard.

"Indonesia is a strong team, especially the player wearing number 19 (Thom Haye), who is excellent and very difficult to stop. However, the Vietnam team has not conceded a goal since the start of the tournament, and the players are full of confidence."

Nevertheless, he affirmed that Vietnam would not devise a plan specifically to counter a single individual.

"The Vietnam team does not focus on any individual but aims for the cohesion of the entire collective. I watched the friendly match between Indonesia and Mozambique, and I could see they have changed a lot compared to before."

According to the Korean strategist, Indonesia possesses many strengths at both ends of the pitch.

"We have carefully analyzed Indonesia's last two matches to understand how they operate their playing style and come up with a counter-plan.

In attack, they have a striker wearing number 9 who makes excellent use of his physical advantage in aerial duels, along with the player wearing number 19 who possesses very good decisive passes. In defense, they play with tight pressure and transition quickly, causing many difficulties for opponents." Nevertheless, he still placed his trust in the defensive system of the Vietnam team.

"The Vietnam team's defense has also performed well, having not conceded any goals after two matches. My players are completely confident in their abilities. We do not compete as individuals but play as a cohesive team to become stronger.

We came here not to get 1 point, but to take all 3 points."

Besides sharing professional insights, the 48-year-old strategist also brought a relaxed atmosphere when talking about the black shirt he will wear in the match against Indonesia.

"Regarding the shirt, I know many fans say that wearing a white shirt in the match against Singapore brought unlucky results. Regardless of what color Indonesia wears, if they don't wear black, I will continue to wear this black shirt."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang stated that the whole team has prepared thoroughly and is ready for the away challenge.

"We all know how strong Indonesia is, especially when they play at home. However, the whole team only focuses on ourselves. The Vietnam team has prepared thoroughly and is ready to step into the match.

When watching the Indonesia team play, I evaluate them as a strong team. They know how to play and understand what they need to do on the field."

I cannot reveal too much because the Indonesian media are also following this press conference. But I am completely reassured because behind us we have an excellent goalkeeper like Patrik Le Giang.

The coaching staff and players have analyzed through video to find solutions to overcome this weakness. Tomorrow we will have new tactical plans, and I am very much looking forward to the match."