ASEAN Cup 2026: Vietnam National Team Secures Convincing 3-0 Victory Over Indonesia

Despite a heavy downpour, the "cauldron" of Pakansari was quickly heated up by around 30,000 passionate Indonesian fans. However, the cool-headedness of coach Kim Sang Sik's players proved decisive as they dealt two consecutive shocks to the host's determination within the first 15 minutes. In the 6th minute, after an effective high press, Hoang Duc threaded a precise pass for Van Vi to burst through and slot into the near post, beating goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata. Less than 10 minutes later, in a textbook counterattack, Hai Long accelerated from his own half, received a beautiful pass from Le Pham Thanh Long, and calmly finished again into the near post to double the lead.

In the second half, Vietnam continued to maintain a tight defense, leaving Indonesia increasingly frustrated. Pushing forward aggressively in search of a goal, Indonesia conceded a third in the 71st minute. Once again, Hoang Duc provided a through ball for substitute striker Nguyen Xuan Son, who faced goalkeeper Nadeo and fired into the far corner to seal the 3-0 victory.

These were sharp images, capitalizing perfectly on opportunities, and a far cry from the previous match where Vietnam was held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Singapore at My Dinh Stadium. That result had made the trip to Pakansari seem very difficult. However, coach Kim Sang Sik's tactical adjustments proved perfect. The defense welcomed back Bui Hoang Viet Anh, who played with full commitment and was a reliable anchor. The midfield saw Le Pham Thanh Long replace Nguyen Quang Hai and excel in a holding role, not only providing the assist for the second goal but also recovering balls and controlling the tempo, allowing Nguyen Hoang Duc to have a breakout day. Up front, Hai Long and Tai Loc started and both had excellent performances, especially Hai Long.

The three points at Pakansari allowed Vietnam to regain control of their destiny and start thinking about the semifinals. With 7 points after three matches, coach Kim Sang Sik's team has a very light task ahead, as they only face Cambodia at home in My Dinh Stadium in the final Group A match on August 7. Meanwhile, Indonesia (6 points) faces a tough challenge as they travel to Singapore for a decisive 90 minutes, where both teams have much at stake, with Singapore holding both home advantage and points (7 points).

If Singapore does not lose to Indonesia, Vietnam will advance to the semifinals regardless of their result against Cambodia. If Indonesia beats Singapore, then with equal head-to-head records against Singapore (0-0 draw) but a vastly superior goal difference (currently +9 compared to Singapore's +3), Vietnam would only be eliminated if they suffer a massive loss to Cambodia while Singapore narrowly loses to Indonesia. This scenario exists only in theory. Under any other result against Cambodia, Vietnam will reach the semifinals.