Coach Hoang Van Phuc: 'Vietnam national team is in the upper hand'

Given the disparity in strength and class, the chances of Coach Kim Sang Sik's team securing all three points in their opening match of the ASEAN Cup 2026 are extremely high. However, the challenge for Vietnam in this game goes beyond just winning.

Reflecting on the upcoming journey of the Vietnam national team in the regional tournament, Coach Hoang Van Phuc shared: 'With the arrival of quality naturalized players and strong form from key figures, Vietnam currently possesses an optimal squad for the championship goal.

Eliminating the concept of "default starting spots" forces every player to give their full effort. This not only raises professional standards but also creates ideal squad depth, giving Coach Kim Sang Sik more personnel options for a tournament with a dense schedule like the ASEAN Cup.

In terms of operation, the current Vietnam team shows flexibility and adaptability with a high-pressing style and quick transitions. Coach Kim Sang Sik's approach brings a fresh wind, making Vietnam an unpredictable and competitive unit. The reluctance to rush into forming a fixed starting lineup reflects a long-term calculation, prioritizing versatility and player adaptability against any opponent. Although big challenges like Indonesia or Singapore still lie ahead, with a stable framework and a thirst to prove themselves, Coach Kim Sang Sik's team is full of confidence heading toward the goal of conquering the Southeast Asian throne".

Predicting the match against Timor Leste, Coach Hoang Van Phuc observed: "Given the disparity in strength and class, the chances of Coach Kim Sang Sik's team securing all three points in their opening match are extremely high. However, the challenge for the coaching staff in this game goes beyond just winning.

In football, surprises can happen, but looking at the current reality, this is considered a relatively "easy" warm-up for Vietnam. In this match, Vietnam completely holds the upper hand in every aspect.

The upcoming opening match against Timor Leste might still be a "smokescreen" in terms of personnel and tactics. However, every move by Coach Kim Sang Sik is aimed at a single goal: maintaining Vietnam's status in Southeast Asian football.

On the other hand, Timor Leste football in recent years has mainly relied on a youth-oriented approach. In Timor Leste's squad for the ASEAN Cup 2026, the most notable name is Claudio Osorio, a former England U16 international who once played alongside Bellingham and Musiala.

However, one swallow does not make a summer. Most of the Timor Leste squad are young players, full of passion but lacking experience. Timor Leste's inherent weakness remains their inexperience, the absence of individuals who can create breakthroughs, and a bench lacking sufficient quality to rotate the squad under heavy pressure.

Facing an opponent expected to play defensively, Coach Kim Sang Sik needs multiple approaches to breach Timor Leste's goal. Since breaking through the middle will be very congested, besides pressing to create a constant overwhelming tempo, there is a great need for breakthroughs on the wings, powerful long-range shots, and set-piece situations that can bring opportunistic goals.

As said, not just any win, Vietnam must achieve a convincing victory, possibly with a comfortable margin to build a positive psychological momentum and accumulate a favorable goal difference for the group stage standings.

Additionally, the match should be an excellent opportunity to test new tactical patterns, give playing time to backup players, while ensuring to preserve fitness and absolutely avoid unnecessary injuries or cards before entering tougher matches against more difficult opponents".