Vietnam face a delicate balancing act against a transformed Malaysia in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 third-place playoff, seeking victory and FIFA ranking points while trying to protect an injury-hit squad from further damage.

Vietnam face Malaysia in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 third-place playoff with more than a medal at stake, as Kim Sang Sik's side seek to protect their world top-100 ranking while managing injuries after a taxing 4-2 win over Pakistan.