Brian Jeffrey
Commentator Quang Tung forecasts a close match, predicting that Vietnam will edge out the Philippines with a 1-0 victory, thereby moving on to the semifinals of the 2024 ASEAN Cup (AFF Cup).
Reflecting on Vietnam’s prior victories against Laos and Indonesia, he noted: “Given the tight match schedule and a variety of opponents, particularly as the semifinals will be tougher, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s approach to rotating players has proven sensible, as shown in our results.”
Nonetheless, he expressed concern that certain positions, especially in the midfield, remain unsettled. He pointed out that Quang Hai performs less effectively when playing deeper on the field, while Hoang Duc has not entirely thrived in a more forward position.
Moreover, Quang Tung proposed that Coach Kim might be experimenting with Nguyen Xuan Son in the midfield, though there needs to be more clarity in player roles for optimal team performance.
Analyzing the upcoming clash, he mentioned: “Despite a higher ranking, we shouldn’t underestimate the Philippines, who have managed draws against Myanmar and Laos. Vietnam will have challenges to face, including adapting to varying temperatures and a squad lacking in younger players. The match’s artificial turf can also impact performance.”
He pointed out some strengths of the Philippines: “While their overall quality may not be outstanding, they showed resilience in the second half against Laos. Many teams in this year’s ASEAN Cup have stepped up their game, maintaining strong intensity. The Philippines, needing a win, will likely play with a ‘nothing to lose’ mindset.”
Quang Tung stressed the importance of a smart approach for Vietnam: “We require all three points, but we also have the option to face Myanmar at home, making it crucial to analyze the opponent for weaknesses and respond wisely.”
Additionally, he stated: “Vietnam shouldn’t push for a high tempo. A more strategic approach, focusing on defense and capitalizing on countering opportunities, will help control the match while conserving energy for subsequent games.”
Feeling optimistic, Quang Tung reiterated his prediction of Vietnam winning 1-0, affirming that securing such a result, similar to their win against Indonesia, would keep them on track for the group’s top spot.
Head coach Kim Sang Sik will likely continue with player rotations while seeking a win against the Philippines to ensure progression to the 2024 ASEAN Cup semifinals.
Throughout the first two matches against Laos and Indonesia, Coach Kim has yet to deploy his best lineup, facing less challenging opponents.
Several players, such as Dinh Thanh Binh, Nguyen Thanh Binh, Ngoc Quang, Viet Anh, and Thanh Long, have not entered gameplay during the tournament.
With two wins already secured and just needing a couple more points to dominate Group B, Coach Kim may use the upcoming match as a chance to experiment with different players.
Even though the Philippines is playing at home, they are unlikely to present a serious challenge to Vietnam, making rotations a practical choice.
Coach Kim is anticipated to explore options within midfield and defense among players who have yet to take the field (excluding goalkeeper Dinh Trieu, who probably won’t start).
In the previous game against Indonesia, Duy Manh was given rest, but he is expected to return against the Philippines, teaming up with Thanh Binh and Viet Anh, while veteran players Thanh Chung and Bui Tien Dung—who started the first two matches—might be replaced.
On the left side, Van Khang could be positioned to develop connections with his teammates, while Van Thanh might take the right flank.
In the midfield setup, Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, and Thanh Long are expected to feature prominently. With a focus on stability and support for Thanh Long’s potential starting debut, Coach Kim will likely keep the experienced duo of Quang Hai and Hoang Duc.
For the attack, Tuan Hai and Vi Hao appear to be the primary candidates to fill in for Tien Linh, Hai Long, and Van Toan, adaptable to the flow and outcome of the match.
In goal, Nguyen Filip is anticipated to start unless there is a surprise decision to field Dinh Trieu.
Vietnam vs. Philippines
Time: 8:00 PM, December 18
Location: Manila, Philippines
