Coach Kim Sang Sik points out Malaysia's biggest threat

The Vietnam head coach acknowledges difficulties caused by Malaysia's wide play and outlines adjustments for the return leg of the AFF Cup 2026 semi-final.

Ahead of the return leg semi-final the 2026 AFF Cup, Coach Kim Sang Sik provided specific tactical insights about Vietnam's strategy. The South Korean manager openly pointed out the issues his team faced in the 2-0 win over Malaysia in the first leg.

"Sharing a bit about tactics, in the first leg against Malaysia, Vietnam faced many difficulties with Malaysia's number 13 and 21 players. They made dangerous attacks into the half-spaces, especially crosses into the box. We are working on these issues in training sessions," said Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Kim Sang Sik's comments show that the Vietnam coaching staff have clearly identified the danger from Malaysia's flanks. In the first leg, the yellow-and-black team frequently brought the ball down the wings before delivering crosses into the penalty area.

Although Malaysia failed to capitalize on these chances to score, the situations still caused some difficult moments for Vietnam's defense. This will be an issue to improve as the opponent is likely to take the initiative in attack in the second leg.

The Vietnamese team will improve their ball control.

In addition to strengthening the defense, Coach Kim Sang Sik also wants Vietnam to perform better when in possession. He said the team will seek effective ways to build up play, rather than just protecting the two-goal lead.

"On the attacking front, Vietnam will also find ways to deploy their best patterns, control the ball better, especially on the flanks, to create more scoring opportunities," emphasized Coach Kim Sang Sik.

This direction shows that Vietnam will not enter the second leg with a passive defensive mindset. The ability to control possession and exploit space on the flanks could be key to limiting pressure from Malaysia while also creating opportunities to seal the race for a final berth early.

In the first leg in Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam won 2-0 thanks to a goal from Nguyen Xuan Son and an own goal by Faris Danish. This result gave Coach Kim Sang Sik's side a significant advantage ahead of the rematch at My Dinh Stadium.

However, Coach Kim Sang Sik remains cautious and has asked his players to overcome the weaknesses that emerged. Against a Malaysia side that must push high to find goals, the ability to defend crosses and protect the gaps between center-backs and full-backs will be particularly crucial.

The second leg of the semi-final between Vietnam and Malaysia takes place on the evening of August 19 at My Dinh Stadium. Vietnam will qualify for the final the 2026 AFF Cup if they successfully protect their two-goal advantage from the first leg.