Vietnam's victory over Indonesia marked the team's most convincing performance of the tournament and highlighted Kim Sang Sik's willingness to make bold selection decisions.

Several established players, including Quang Hai, Doan Van Hau, Nguyen Xuan Son and Hoang Hen, started on the bench, while Bui Hoang Viet Anh, Thanh Long, Hai Long and Tai Loc were handed starting roles.

The changes unsettled Indonesia from the opening whistle.

Hai Long scored Vietnam's second goal, while Thanh Long delivered an outstanding performance in defensive midfield, helping Vietnam control the center of the pitch and limit Indonesia's attacking opportunities.

Rather than defending his decisions following the disappointing goalless draw against Singapore, Kim responded by reshaping both his lineup and tactical approach.

The result not only strengthened Vietnam's position in the group but also restored confidence among players and supporters after criticism following the Singapore match.

For Kim, the victory also provided valuable evidence that his evolving tactical blueprint can succeed against stronger opponents.

Fresh changes expected against Cambodia

Kim is expected to rotate his squad again against Cambodia, balancing the need for victory with preparations for the knockout stage.

Goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang is likely to retain his place behind a back three featuring Xuan Manh, Thanh Chung and Van Hau.

Van Vy and Tien Anh are expected to operate as wing-backs, while Hoang Duc remains the cornerstone of midfield. Quang Hai could return alongside him after beginning the Indonesia match on the bench.

In attack, Hoang Hen, Dinh Bac and Xuan Son are among the players expected to start.

The changes would represent a return for several experienced players while rewarding others who impressed against Indonesia.

Kim also has an opportunity to restore confidence among players who underperformed earlier in the tournament, ensuring the entire squad remains engaged ahead of the semifinals.

Cambodia still capable of causing problems

Despite already being eliminated, Cambodia are unlikely to be taken lightly.

Head coach Koji Gyotoku has built a team that prefers quick transitions through central areas rather than relying heavily on crosses from wide positions.

Much of Cambodia's play revolves around midfielder Alisher Mirzaev, whose passing range and ability to progress the ball through midfield have made him the team's primary playmaker.

His expected duel with Hoang Duc could become one of the match's key tactical battles.

Although Cambodia have created fewer chances than Vietnam, their finishing efficiency has been notable. Tournament statistics show that 65% of Cambodia's shots have been on target, compared with 42% for Vietnam, while their conversion rate also surpasses that of the defending champions.

Young forward Hav Soknet has emerged as one of Cambodia's brightest prospects after scoring twice against Timor-Leste, while Mon Rado and Bong Samuel have also impressed with energetic performances.

However, Cambodia will arrive in Hanoi without three important players.

According to Cambodian media, striker Mat Noron, naturalized forward Abdel Kader Coulibaly and midfielder Sieng Chanthea have all been released from the squad because of health issues, reducing Gyotoku's options for the final group match.

With nothing left to play for in terms of qualification, the Japanese coach is expected to give additional opportunities to younger players.

"We face a very strong opponent," Gyotoku said ahead of the match. "Our victory over Timor-Leste has given the players confidence before facing Vietnam."

Lessons remain despite Indonesia win

Vietnam's victory in Jakarta delivered more than three points.

It demonstrated the team's resilience after the setback against Singapore and reinforced belief in Kim's tactical approach.

Yet the performance also highlighted areas that still require improvement.

Although Vietnam scored three times, several clear chances went unfinished by Dinh Bac, Tai Loc, Xuan Son and Hoang Hen.

The wastefulness echoed similar issues in the draw against Singapore and suggests Vietnam still need to become more clinical in front of goal.

Equally significant is the manner in which the goals arrived.

Vietnam capitalized on Indonesian mistakes, effective pressing and moments of individual brilliance rather than sustained attacking combinations.

As the tournament enters the knockout rounds, opponents are likely to defend with greater discipline and offer fewer opportunities in transition.

Improving chance creation through structured attacking play remains one of Kim's biggest priorities if Vietnam are to retain the ASEAN Cup.

Familiar referee appointed

The Asian Football Confederation has appointed Hong Kong referee Cheung Wai Lung to officiate the match at My Dinh Stadium.

Cheung previously handled Vietnam's 3-0 friendly victory over Bangladesh in March and has been a FIFA referee since 2026.

He will be assisted by Lam Cheuk Hong from Hong Kong and Thai assistants Apichit Nophuan and Alongkorn Khonwai.

Special visitors boost morale

Vietnam resumed training in Hanoi on August 5 following their return from Indonesia.

The session featured several well-known Vietnamese entertainers and public figures, including singers Minh Vuong and Duy Khoa, actor Chi Trung, comedian Trung "Ruoi" and professional Age of Empires player Nguyen Duc Binh, better known as "Chim Se Di Nang."

The visit formed part of an initiative designed to connect the national team with supporters and provide encouragement ahead of the Cambodia match.

Despite rainy conditions, Vietnam completed a full training session, with the squad appearing relaxed and confident following the victory over Indonesia.

Kickoff between Vietnam and Cambodia is scheduled for 8 p.m. (GMT+7) on August 7 at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.

Dai Nam - Ngoc Huy - Duy Nguyen