Malaysia could spring a surprise against the Vietnam national team

Vietnam are the defending champions and considered the stronger candidates by far, yet Malaysia are not intimidated as they get ready to face Vietnam over two legs in the semifinals of the Asean Hyundai Cup 2026.

Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe understands that his young squad are seen as underdogs, but he believes Malaysia have nothing to lose and every reason to aim for victory over the defending champions.

"We know Vietnam are the favorites in this tournament, but we also have ambitions to go further.

We need to study and analyze their recent matches, increase the intensity of our play, and improve our ability to handle pressure."

Malaysia secured a place in the semifinals after a 1-0 win over the Philippines, with a first-half header from G. Pavithran providing the crucial goal.

That result lifted Malaysia to second place in Group B with nine points, above Myanmar, after their hopes of advancing had been jeopardized by a 0-2 loss to Thailand on August 1.

Now, Vietnam stand as the obstacle preventing Malaysia from reaching the final, with the first leg of the semifinal to be held on Malaysia's home soil on August 16.

Coach Tan Cheng Hoe admitted that Malaysia have a poor head-to-head record against this regional rival, but urged his players to believe they can produce a surprise.

"Facing Vietnam has almost become a familiar challenge in terms of how difficult it is for us to secure a win," he said.

"But we have to believe in ourselves. Hopefully the fans will come to the stadium in large numbers again, because their support can give the players extra motivation."

The coach also acknowledged that Malaysia still have plenty to improve after a tense performance against the Philippines, particularly in creating chances and coping with the physical demands of the match.

However, he expressed pride in how his young squad overcame a difficult preparation to reach the semifinals, an achievement that few believed they could accomplish before the tournament.

"From the very beginning, our preparation did not go smoothly. But thanks to the desire and trust the players have in each other, along with the coaching staff always standing by and guiding them, we have made it to the semifinals—something that very few thought we had a chance to achieve."

The first leg of the semifinal between Malaysia and the Vietnam national team will take place at 20:00 on August 16 at the Cheras Stadium.