The hidden competition between Vietnam and Indonesia
Today (6.10), the Vietnam team will visit Malaysia in Group F of the final qualifying round of the 2027 Asian Cup.
On the same day, the Indonesian team also had a match against Japan in the final match of Group C of the 3rd qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup.
Currently, Vietnam is ranked 109th on the FIFA rankings with 1183.83 points. Meanwhile, the team from the archipelago is ranked 123th with 1142.92 points. The results of the two matches on June 10 may change the rankings of the two Southeast Asian teams.
In case Vietnam draws or wins against Malaysia, the position of the "Golden Star Warriors" will not have many changes. However, if they lose to Malaysia, coach Kim Sang-sik's team will be deducted 13.99 points, which is only 1169.84 points.
For Indonesia, if they defeat Japan, they will be awarded an additional 21.58 points. Along with the previous match, the team from the archipelago was awarded 15.05 points after the victory over China (5.6). If all goes well, Indonesia could increase to 1179.55 points.
Thus, if Vietnam loses to Malaysia and Indonesia wins Japan, Indonesia will surpass Vietnam in the FIFA rankings. Therefore, coach Kim Sang-sik and his team were forced to achieve favorable results at Bukit Jalil Stadium.
In fact, although Indonesia is determined, Japan is a strong opponent. The Hungarian team has had a ticket to the 2026 World Cup 3 matches early, but a victory against Indonesia to avoid relegation on the world rankings is what Japan needs.
The task of the Vietnam team
Compared to Malaysia, the Vietnamese team is at a disadvantage in many aspects. Coach Kim Sang-sik and his team will have to play at Bukit Jalil Stadium with a capacity of up to 80,000 people. Therefore, the players must solve the heat problem from Malaysian fans in the stands.
In addition, Malaysia has increased its strength significantly with the service of naturalized stars. At the same time, during the past time, the opponent has "locked the media" so there is not much information, causing the Vietnamese coaching staff to be passive in planning tactics.
At this time, the dual task of the Vietnamese team is very important. A favorable result against Malaysia gives Vietnam the opportunity to win an early ticket to the 2027 Asian Cup finals, while ensuring a position on the FIFA rankings and above Indonesia.
The major change in Malaysia is a challenge for Vietnam, but also a measure of the level and class of the Southeast Asian champion.
