The Vietnamese team has many grounds to aim for a favorable result against Malaysia in the ASEAN Cup 2026 semi-finals.
Coach Kim Sang-sik's team finished the group stage at the top of Group A with an unbeaten record, scoring 13 goals and conceding only 1 goal. However, finishing efficiency needs to be improved. According to statistics, from the beginning of the tournament, Vietnam made 74 shots but only 24 were on target, with a chance conversion rate of 57.6%.
If they take better advantage of the opportunities created, the defending champion can put great pressure on Malaysia's defense right on the away field. This is also an important factor before the second leg taking place at My Dinh.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian team entered the semi-finals with an unstable squad. After the penalty related to 7 illegally naturalized players, this team only has 7 players who participated in the 1-3 defeat to Vietnam in March.
Injuries continue to give coach Tan Cheng Hoe a headache as some players are not in the best physical condition. Especially in midfield, Wan Kuzain - one of Malaysia's outstanding players in the group stage - had to return to the US to join the club.
Pavithran Gunalan and Sergio Aguero are expected to fill the gaps. However, Malaysia will face a Vietnam with better squad quality and depth.
Semi-final history has witnessed Vietnam's two defeats to Malaysia. Therefore, coach Kim Sang-sik and his team need to maintain focus, avoiding force advantages becoming reasons for subjectivity.
ASEAN Cup 2026 semi-final schedule today (August 16):
8:00 PM: Malaysia vs Vietnam
