Vietnam vs Cambodia: Securing Top Spot in the Group to Reach the Semifinals (8:00 PM on August 7, live on FPT Play)

After an impressive display against Indonesia, the Vietnamese squad now has the chance to wrap up the 2026 ASEAN Cup group stage flawlessly.

Tonight's match against Cambodia at My Dinh Stadium is not just about securing a semifinal spot; it's also an opportunity for Coach Kim Sang Sik's team to assert their status as top contenders for the championship by claiming first place in Group A.

The current standings heavily favor Vietnam. With seven points from three matches and a superior goal difference, a win against Cambodia will ensure Coach Kim Sang Sik's side doesn't need to worry about the result of the Singapore vs. Indonesia game. This is precisely the goal the home team has set.

What's worth watching is not only the outcome but also how Vietnam approaches the game. The South Korean coach has indicated there will be some squad rotation to preserve strength for the semifinals, while still fielding the strongest possible lineup. This reflects Coach Kim Sang Sik's clear philosophy: respecting every opponent but always prioritizing victory.

The lesson from the 0-0 draw against Singapore remains relevant. Vietnam dominated possession but lacked sharpness in decisive moments, making the situation more difficult.

Just three days later, on Indonesian soil, Coach Kim Sang Sik adjusted the midfield by introducing Thanh Long alongside Hoang Duc, and the change was immediate. One quietly disrupted and regained possession, while the other was freed to showcase his creativity. The result was a complete domination of the Indonesian team, leaving them at serious risk of elimination.

It's no coincidence that after the match, Coach Kim Sang Sik specifically praised this duo. Thanh Long brought balance, while Hoang Duc continued to prove his class with two assists. Additionally, players like Hai Long, Van Vi, Tien Anh, Xuan Son, Hoang Hen, and Dinh Bac have high motivation, creating an energetic and unpredictable team. This is a chance for Xuan Son, Dinh Bac, and Hoang Hen to increase their goal tally in the ASEAN Cup 2026.

Against Cambodia, Coach Kim Sang Sik is likely to rotate a few positions again. However, regardless of the changes, the tactical framework will probably remain intact. This is an opportunity for backup options like Viet Cuong, Gia Hung, Van Do, and Tuan Tai to regain match fitness while helping key players rest ahead of the semifinals.

Cambodia has consistently lost to Vietnam in the past, but on this occasion, the home team cannot afford to be complacent. Coach Koji Gyotoku's side has been eliminated but recently secured a 3-0 win over Timor-Leste, which has somewhat restored their confidence. The Japanese coach has even stated that his team will give their all, hoping that "the 12th time will be different" after 11 consecutive defeats to Vietnam.

However, the gap in quality between the two teams remains clear. Vietnam's attack has scored 10 goals in three group matches, their defense has conceded only once, and they have been unbeaten for nearly two years under Coach Kim Sang Sik. In contrast, Cambodia has conceded seven goals against Singapore and Indonesia and is missing several key players due to injuries.

If they maintain the same spirit and intensity as in the victory over Indonesia, Vietnam is capable of delivering a convincing win to close out the group stage. Three points will not only mean finishing top of Group A but also boost the confidence of a team that is increasingly cohesive under Coach Kim Sang Sik. If they score an early goal, the coach will have more flexibility to manage the squad and preserve energy.

Beating Cambodia will be the ideal preparation before facing bigger challenges in the semifinals and the journey to defend the ASEAN Cup 2026 title.