Vietnam head coach Kim Sang Sik has declared that his side is targeting victory against Indonesia despite acknowledging the challenge of playing away from home in what could prove to be the defining match of Group A at the ASEAN Cup 2026.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the South Korean coach described the encounter as crucial for both teams' hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

"This is a very important match that could decide qualification for both teams. Our objective is to win. Playing away is always difficult, but the team is highly motivated to take all three points," Kim said.

Vietnam heads into the match after a disappointing 0-0 home draw with Singapore, a result that left the defending champions with less margin for error.

Kim admitted his players were frustrated after failing to convert numerous chances but insisted valuable lessons had been learned.

"We created many opportunities against Singapore but couldn't score. If we had won that match, this trip to Indonesia would have been much easier. The players have prepared well, and we want to respond with a strong performance and a positive result."

The coach added that although Vietnam had never previously played at Pakansari Stadium in Bogor, the weather conditions are similar to those in Vietnam, allowing the squad to adapt quickly.

Tactical adjustments after Singapore setback

Vietnam dominated possession and created significantly more chances than Singapore but lacked efficiency in front of goal.

Forwards Nguyen Xuan Son, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Do Hoang Hen and several teammates all failed to capitalize on promising opportunities, while set pieces, crosses and long-range efforts also proved ineffective against Singapore's disciplined defense.

The draw also exposed concerns in defensive midfield, where Vietnam has yet to find a replacement capable of matching the influence of former regular Doan Ngoc Tan. Analysts believe Kim may consider pairing Hai Long with Hoang Duc in central midfield while allowing Quang Hai greater attacking freedom.

Vietnam's defense also showed moments of vulnerability, particularly in transition and distribution, areas likely to come under greater pressure against Indonesia.

Kim wary of Indonesia's attacking threat

Kim said his coaching staff had conducted a thorough analysis of Indonesia, including attending the hosts' recent friendly against Mozambique.

"Indonesia has a very strong attack, with physically imposing players who are technically capable and can score in different ways. That will certainly be a challenge for our defense," he said.

However, he emphasized that Vietnam had kept clean sheets in its previous two matches and remained confident.

"Defending is not the responsibility of one player. It requires coordination across the entire team."

Kim dismissed any concern over Indonesia's preparations, insisting Vietnam's own readiness would be the deciding factor.

"I don't care where Indonesia chooses to train. What matters is our preparation and our motivation when we step onto the pitch."

Indonesia equally confident

Indonesia head coach John Herdman also expressed confidence ahead of the match, despite praising Vietnam as one of the region's strongest teams.

The Canadian said Indonesia had endured a demanding 20-hour journey back to Jakarta after its previous away fixture but was fully prepared for another major test.

Indonesia enters the match with six points from two victories, having scored eight goals while conceding only once.

"Tomorrow is a real challenge. We are facing one of the strongest teams at an important moment in the tournament," Herdman said.

He described Vietnam as a well-organized side led by an experienced coach who knows how to maximize his players' strengths.

"Vietnam has been preparing since June 22 and is unbeaten in seven matches. They may be slightly ahead of us at the moment, but that is no excuse."

Herdman said Indonesia would focus on imposing its own style in front of its home supporters rather than worrying about Vietnam's approach.

Indonesian media identify Vietnam's biggest threats

Ahead of kickoff, Indonesian outlet Bola highlighted three Vietnamese players it believes could trouble the hosts.

Top of the list is winger Nguyen Dinh Bac, whose hat-trick and assist in Vietnam's opening match made him the tournament's leading scorer despite an ineffective outing against Singapore.

Naturalized attacking midfielder Do Hoang Hen, born Hendrio Araujo da Silva, was also singled out after scoring twice against Timor-Leste and quickly establishing himself as a key creative force.

Leading the list is striker Nguyen Xuan Son, whose tally of 12 goals in 11 international appearances since making his Vietnam debut at the 2024 ASEAN Cup has cemented his reputation as one of Southeast Asia's most dangerous forwards.

A tactical opportunity for Vietnam

Despite Indonesia entering the match as slight favorites because of home advantage and fresher legs, some observers believe the circumstances may actually suit Vietnam.

Against Singapore, Vietnam struggled to break down a compact defense that sat deep throughout the match.

Indonesia, however, is expected to play more aggressively at home, potentially leaving space behind its defensive line for Vietnam's pacey attackers to exploit on the counterattack.

If Vietnam can improve its finishing while maintaining defensive discipline, Kim's side believes an away victory is well within reach.

The Group A showdown kicks off at 8:30 p.m. local time on August 3 at Pakansari Stadium in Bogor, Indonesia.

Dai Nam