Vietnam top Group A with seven points after three matches, level with Singapore but ahead on goal difference. A draw at My Dinh National Stadium would secure a semifinal place, but Kim said his team is determined to finish top of the group.

"Based on the FIFA rankings, Vietnam are stronger than Cambodia, but we respect every opponent and have to give our best," Kim told reporters ahead of the match. "There could be some adjustments to preserve the fitness of certain players before the semifinals. However, we still intend to use our strongest possible lineup. Our objective is to beat Cambodia and finish first in the group."

Vietnam recovered from a frustrating 0-0 draw with Singapore by defeating Indonesia 3-0 in their previous match, with Kim springing several selection surprises.

Midfielder Nguyen Thanh Long impressed on his first start after a lengthy absence, partnering Nguyen Hoang Duc in central midfield.

"I rate Thanh Long very highly," Kim said. "He may not be physically imposing, but he competed well against Indonesia's midfielders. Hoang Duc also performed excellently. Quang Hai, Hoang Duc and Thanh Long all played well, and I'm still considering the best midfield combination for tomorrow."

Kim hinted at another reshuffle against Cambodia, with experienced players including Quang Hai, Doan Van Hau and striker Nguyen Xuan Son expected to return to the starting lineup after beginning the Indonesia match on the bench.

The South Korean coach revealed he and his staff have already begun studying potential semifinal opponents from Group B.

"We've watched footage of the Group B teams. Their lineups have changed significantly compared with the previous tournament," he said.

Kim also joked about the black shirt he has worn during Vietnam's recent victories after being asked whether it had become his lucky charm.

"Maybe it wasn't the players," he said with a smile. "Perhaps it was because I wore a white shirt against Singapore and we were unlucky. We created many chances but couldn't score."

Vietnam winger Nguyen Hai Long echoed his coach's confidence, saying the team is determined to reward home supporters after failing to beat Singapore in Hanoi.

"We have to work even harder this time. Our target is three points against Cambodia," Hai Long said.

Responding to suggestions that the ASEAN Cup lacks competitiveness because several regional teams are missing key players, Hai Long said every appearance for the national team remains special.

"Everyone has their own opinion, but every time I wear the Vietnam jersey it's a huge honour. I always want to give my best."

He also answered Cambodia defender Ouk Sovann's pledge that his team hopes to become the first side to score against Vietnam at this year's tournament.

"Our objective is always to keep a clean sheet and win," Hai Long said.

Cambodia, meanwhile, have already been eliminated after collecting only three points from four matches, including a victory over Timor-Leste and defeats to Singapore and Indonesia.

Head coach Koji Gyotoku confirmed that forwards Mat Noron and naturalized striker Abdel Kader Coulibaly, along with midfielder Sieng Chanthea, have all left the squad because of fitness issues.

"Unfortunately, we've already been eliminated, but we see this match as an opportunity to learn from one of the strongest teams in Southeast Asia," Gyotoku said. "The atmosphere remains positive. The players who are still here are good enough to face Vietnam."

The Japanese coach acknowledged Cambodia would likely spend much of the match defending but insisted his players would still look to exploit counterattacking opportunities.

"Of course we want to beat Vietnam, but we know how strong they are. We'll focus on defending and, when opportunities come, try to counterattack and score."

Victory would not only secure Vietnam first place in Group A but could also prove significant later in the tournament, as the group winners would have the advantage of hosting the second leg of the final if they progress all the way.

The Group A finale kicks off at 8 p.m. local time on Aug. 7 at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.

Dai Nam