The Vietnam national team is determined to extend their record under coach Kim Sang Sik.

The match against Indonesia at Pakansari Stadium will not only decide the fate of Group A in the 2026 ASEAN Cup but also represents the biggest test for coach Kim Sang-sik since he took charge of the Vietnam national team.

The impressive unbeaten streak of the South Korean strategist now faces its toughest challenge, as all the pressure, expectations, and the right to decide their own ticket to the semifinals converge on the 90 minutes on Indonesian soil.

After a disappointing 0-0 draw against Singapore, the Vietnam national team has put themselves in a difficult position. Instead of holding the top spot in the group, Coach Kim Sang Sik's squad has to settle for third place and must aim for a victory over Indonesia if they want to take control of their own destiny.

That is no small pressure, especially when the opponent is playing at home at Pakansari, with a quality lineup and the passionate support of thousands of fans. But looking at it from the other side, this is also an opportunity for the Vietnam team to prove the mettle of the defending champions.

It is worth noting that even Coach John Herdman has shown great respect for the Vietnam team. The Indonesian coach rates the red-shirted side as one of the title contenders, while also stating that Coach Kim Sang Sik is "someone who has never tasted defeat" and knows how to maximize the potential of both local and naturalized players.

Coach Herdman also acknowledged that the Vietnam team has had a longer preparation period and that "their engine is already warmed up." These compliments are both a sign of respect and an indication that Indonesia fully understands the strength of the Vietnam team.

Nevertheless, the home advantage still allows the Indonesian side to enter the match with a more relaxed mindset. Indonesia still has room to correct mistakes in their final group match against Singapore, while Vietnam has almost no margin for error if they want to keep their fate in their own hands.

Therefore, the most important thing for Coach Kim Sang Sik right now is to help his players relieve the pressure. The draw against Singapore does not reflect a declining Vietnam team. The team still created many chances, controlled the game, and kept a clean sheet. The issue lies only in a lack of sharpness in the final finishing touches.

The South Korean coach also acknowledged that in the pre-match press conference. He affirmed that the team has prepared thoroughly and will answer with their performance on the pitch. That calmness is essential, because when entering a big match, psychological factors sometimes matter more than tactics.

One of the positive aspects for the Vietnam team is that their defense has not conceded a goal after two matches. Patrik Lê Giang has been extremely reliable, and the defensive system, while still needing improvement, has provided a certain level of solidity.

Against Indonesia, where Thom Haye is considered the midfield brain and Baker is always ready to make a difference up front, concentration will be a mandatory requirement.

On the other hand, the Vietnam team also has reason to believe in players who can make a difference. Đình Bắc once won the U23 Southeast Asian championship with Coach Kim Sang Sik right on Indonesian soil, and he was the tournament's best player last year. That fond memory could become a great source of motivation for the young striker to regain his confidence after a subpar performance against Singapore.

More importantly, Coach Kim Sang Sik still has many options up his sleeve to create surprises. This match may not require Vietnam to play beautifully, but it certainly demands clarity, pragmatism, and the ability to strike at the right moment.

If they overcome Indonesia, the Vietnam national team will not only extend their unbeaten run under Coach Kim Sang Sik but also reaffirm their status as the defending champions.