On paper, coach Kim Sang Sik has done an excellent job. U22 Vietnam remains unbeaten in all official matches under his tenure, from the AFF U23 Championship to the AFC U23 qualifiers.

Even more impressive is the defensive stability of his system - conceding only one goal per tournament.

However, beyond the numbers, it’s clear that both defense and attack show systemic issues. While the backline has conceded few goals, this has often depended heavily on luck and the individual brilliance of the goalkeepers to mask tactical flaws.

Most alarming is the inefficiency in attack. A recurring problem for both the senior national team and U22 Vietnam under Kim Sang Sik is poor finishing.

This has prompted experts to question whether the players’ tactical understanding and organization are meeting the demands of the Korean coach.

Or perhaps, the tactical philosophy itself simply doesn't align with the strengths of Vietnamese players?

Regardless of the reason, the repeated failure to convert chances is a serious cause for concern.

U22 Vietnam must develop a clearer identity

It’s undeniable that Kim Sang Sik has helped Vietnam maintain its competitive stature. But football is not just about numbers on the scoreboard - it’s also about the emotions and confidence that a team’s playing style inspires.

In that sense, fans have every right to feel unsatisfied.

Their expectations are not unrealistic, nor are they seeking perfection. They’re not demanding both victory and beauty at all costs.

They simply want to see a more defined playing style with clear intentions - something reminiscent of the Park Hang Seo era.

Back then, whether playing counter-attacking football or pressing high, his teams had a distinct tactical identity.

In contrast, the current U22 squad is winning, but the performances lack clarity and often feel laborious.

These expectations are legitimate, especially considering how well-prepared this squad is. U22 Vietnam has had a full year to get ready, with significant support from the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF), including high-quality training camps and friendly matches.

Given that investment, the fact that the team still doesn’t inspire confidence is disappointing.

It’s time for U22 Vietnam to evolve - to prove their true capability and win the gold medal at SEA Games 33 not just through hard-fought, fortunate victories, but through dominant, deserved performances.

Duy Nguyen