Defending champions Vietnam are within touching distance of the semifinals of the 2026 ASEAN Cup after an unbeaten start to their Group A campaign under head coach Kim Sang Sik.

Vietnam lead the group with seven points from three matches, level with Singapore but ahead on goal difference after scoring 10 goals without conceding.

A victory over Cambodia in the final group-stage match on Aug. 7 would guarantee first place, while even a draw would be enough to secure a place in the knockout stage.

Vietnam's emphatic 3-0 victory over Indonesia in Jakarta dramatically strengthened their position in the race for the semifinals.

Kim Sang Sik's side currently boast the tournament's best defensive record, with 10 goals scored, none conceded and a goal difference of +10. Singapore also have seven points but trail Vietnam with a goal difference of +3, while Indonesia sit third with six points.

In the final round of Group A matches, Vietnam host Cambodia while Singapore and Indonesia face each other.

Only an unlikely heavy defeat to already-eliminated Cambodia, combined with an Indonesia victory over Singapore and a dramatic swing in goal difference, would prevent Vietnam from advancing.

Finishing top of the group would also carry added significance, potentially allowing Vietnam to avoid one of the tournament favorites in the semifinals and, if they reach the final, earn home advantage in the second leg.

Vietnam entered the tournament aiming to defend the regional title won at the previous edition, with Kim Sang Sik leading a squad blending experienced internationals and emerging young talent.

Vietnam squad for ASEAN Cup 2026

Goalkeepers: Tran Trung Kien, Dang Van Lam, Patrik Le Giang

Defenders: Phan Tuan Tai, Nguyen Thanh Chung, Khong Minh Gia Bao, Pham Xuan Manh, Truong Tien Anh, Doan Van Hau, Bui Hoang Viet Anh, Nguyen Van Vi, Nguyen Nhat Minh, Dinh Quang Kiet

Midfielders: Nguyen Hai Long, Do Hoang Hen, Nguyen Hoang Duc, Le Pham Thanh Long, Le Van Do, Nguyen Quang Hai, Ngo Dang Khoa, Nguyen Ngoc My

Forwards: Pham Gia Hung, Nguyen Tai Loc, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Nguyen Xuan Son, Nguyen Tran Viet Cuong

Head coach: Kim Sang Sik

Vietnam's ASEAN Cup 2026 group-stage fixtures

Thien Binh