U22 Vietnam began their SEA Games 33 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over U22 Laos on December 3, thanks to a brace from striker Dinh Bac. But what should have been a routine victory instead exposed numerous weaknesses, leaving coach Kim Sang Sik with mixed emotions.

The Korean coach acknowledged the team’s anxiety before kickoff. “It was our first match, so the players were understandably nervous,” he said. “But we achieved our goal of winning three points. Still, I’m not satisfied  -  we must improve.”

A night of highs and lows for Dinh Bac

Dinh Bac, hailed as the hero with two crucial goals, also came under scrutiny for missed chances and isolated play. His performance was a paradox: a match-winner, yet often disconnected from teammates in key moments.

In the second half, his second goal stirred controversy after the assistant referee flagged for offside. Coach Kim protested passionately and the head referee eventually ruled in Vietnam’s favor.

“I haven’t reviewed the footage,” said Kim, “but I firmly believed it wasn’t offside. I’m glad the goal was allowed to stand.”

Vietnam’s shaky defense raises concerns

Despite the win, Vietnam’s defensive line showed cracks.

Trung Kien, in goal, had little to do overall, but was left exposed when Hieu Minh failed to clear a corner, leading to Laos' only goal.

Both Ly Duc and Nhat Minh had uncomfortable moments against Laos' counters, especially in the final minutes.

Midfield saw flashes of control, with Xuan Bac performing well before injury forced him off. Captain Van Khang offered energy on the left but lacked sharpness in his final passes.

Minh Phuc impressed with an assist and attacking drive, while Quoc Cuong brought needed creativity after replacing Xuan Bac.

Kim Sang Sik demands sharpness ahead of Malaysia test

Although Vietnam claimed full points, the mood was far from celebratory.

“We must score more and play better,” said coach Kim. “Quoc Viet and Thanh Nhan missed too many chances. Our attacking line needs to be more clinical.”

Vietnam now has eight days to prepare before facing U22 Malaysia  -  a matchup that could define their tournament.

“I’m happy with the result,” Kim said, “but the players must fix what’s not working. We’re not yet the team we want to be.”

Forward Nguyen Dinh Bac also admitted the team’s lackluster performance: “This wasn’t our best, but I believe we’ll show a very different face against Malaysia.”

Duy Nguyen & Dai Nam