Strength built on defense

A 17-match unbeaten streak could easily suggest that Vietnam’s biggest strength lies in attack. Yet statistics tell a different story. The foundation of success has been the backline.

In official matches, the team has conceded just eight goals in 13 games - the lowest in its history, even surpassing the peak period under Park Hang Seo, whose philosophy was built on defensive solidity.

This stability has allowed Vietnam to control games, giving confidence to the midfield and attack while creating opportunities to exploit opponents’ weaknesses.

A concern hidden behind numbers

However, numbers can be misleading. A closer look at performances reveals that the defense is not as solid as it appears.

There have been multiple occasions where Vietnam struggled against weaker opponents, relying on luck or individual brilliance to keep clean sheets.

The goals conceded against Malaysia and especially Nepal in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers are clear warnings. These were avoidable mistakes, stemming from vulnerabilities that opponents have not consistently punished - yet.

Looking ahead, the challenge becomes even more daunting as Vietnam prepares to face stronger teams.

A difficult puzzle to solve

Reinforcing the defense will not be simple in the short term. Emerging players like Nhat Minh and Ngoc Bao still need time to gain experience and adapt to the system.

Meanwhile, expectations surrounding naturalized center-back Do Phi Long remain uncertain, particularly as his club form has yet to fully convince.

This leaves Kim Sang Sik with a complex task. Beyond identifying new personnel, he must elevate the entire defensive structure - from pressing systems and positional organization to game reading and coordination.

Vietnam’s unbeaten streak offers encouragement, but it cannot hide the underlying issues. Ironically, the area once seen as the team’s greatest strength may now require the most urgent attention.

If Vietnam is to truly “fly high” in upcoming competitions, especially the Asian Cup 2027, confronting and resolving these defensive weaknesses will be essential.

Duy Nguyen