Brian Jeffrey
Following their victory in the 2024 ASEAN Cup, the Vietnam national football team is aiming for even greater accomplishments.
To achieve these goals, head coach Kim Sang Sik must remain committed to leading the team forward.
Restoring Confidence and Ambition
Winning the 2024 ASEAN Cup not only delighted fans but also revitalized belief in a team that faced a challenging period.
With this renewed confidence, expectations are elevated for Vietnam to advance beyond regional successes, mirroring the impressive legacy of former coach Park Hang Seo.
However, experts and supporters are encouraging Kim to learn from the mistakes of his predecessor. A unique and strong approach is essential for Vietnam to achieve long-lasting success.
Lessons from the Past
Prior to their victory against Thailand in the final, Vietnam suffered consecutive losses to the same team in earlier tournaments under Park Hang Seo.
These defeats were often blamed on officiating errors, but the primary issue was strategic inefficiency.
Park’s failure to introduce innovative tactics over time made his team predictable, which ultimately led to disappointment.
A New Strategy with Kim Sang Sik
The win in the 2024 ASEAN Cup was a result of favorable conditions and smart strategies, with Kim Sang Sik orchestrating the effort.
Kim transformed Vietnam into an unpredictable adversary, utilizing rotation strategies and frequently changing his starting eleven.
This adventurous tactic kept opponents on their toes and prepared every player to step up when needed.
Unlike in previous setups, where specific players were guaranteed their spots, Kim’s method sparked healthy competition and resilience within the team.
This flexibility was highlighted in the second leg of the 2024 ASEAN Cup final, where the team faced tough challenges but still emerged victorious.
Ensuring Long-term Success
Although recent victories do not ensure future victories, Kim’s strategies represent a shift away from relying too heavily on a fixed group of players.
His focus on inclusion and adaptability builds a solid groundwork for sustained stability and development, instead of transient success seen in the past.
By maintaining his strategic approach, Kim Sang Sik can lead Vietnam towards enduring victories on the international scene, allowing the team to progress instead of stagnate.
Duy Nguyen
