Vietnam head coach Kim Sang-sik has warned his players not to become distracted by their remarkable 22-match unbeaten run, insisting that past achievements will mean nothing when the defending champions face Malaysia in the first leg of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 semi-final.
Vietnam arrive in Kuala Lumpur as the clear favourites after a dominant group-stage campaign, while Malaysia have embraced their underdog status and are determined to produce a major upset on home soil.
That mentality has become the foundation of Vietnam’s preparations as they attempt to extend an extraordinary unbeaten sequence that has now reached 22 matches.
Since taking charge, Kim has turned Vietnam into Southeast Asia’s most formidable tactical setup. However, the South Korean tactician dismissed any talk of records heading into the clash.
“The record is good, however, each single match is more important. In order to continue, I think our players and all the members of the team should work harder. I want the players to keep improving and developing as players.”
Acknowledging the host nation’s primary threats—particularly Malaysia’s fluid midfield and pace out wide—Kim stressed that Vietnam’s defensive shape and team structure would be tested.
“Malaysia is a strong team. We will analyse their weaknesses and prepare for tomorrow’s match. I don’t think it is about the single players. It’s about one team.”
Playing away from home presents a distinct test of character, but Kim confirmed the squad has arrived in Kuala Lumpur fully fit and without major injury concerns.
“Although it is the first match, we have come to a tough ground. We need to prepare well and adjust to the current situation.”
Vietnamese attacking spearhead Nguyen Xuan Son echoed his manager’s sentiments, pushing aside queries regarding historical dominance over Malaysia to keep eyes on the immediate prize.
“I’m not a coach, so I don’t know much about history. Tomorrow is a new game. Our goal is to secure the title.”
Xuan Son highlighted host midfielder Endrick Dos Santos as a notable threat, while reinforcing that Vietnam’s success relies on executing their own tactical brief rather than reacting to individual matchups.
“Honestly, I like him. He is a good player. If we prepare well, train well and follow the coach’s plan, I think everything will be fine. We try to think more about Vietnam — the preparation, the food, the rest, the recovery. I think this is more important.”
The defending champions want to remain on course for another title, but Malaysia are dreaming of an upset that could transform their tournament.
For Kim Sang-sik, the answer is simple: forget the unbeaten streak, forget the past and focus on the next 90 minutes.
Credit Photo : FAM
