Coach Kim Sang-sik celebrates after Vietnam defeated Indonesia 1-0 in the AFF U23 Championship final at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, 29/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

Kim Sang-sik, coach of the top Southeast Asian team, expressed his joy after leading Vietnam to its third consecutive AFF U23 Championship title. He thanked the players for their perseverance and effort in the sweltering heat, acknowledging the support and expectations of Vietnamese football fans as contributing factors to the team's success.

He admitted that while winning is always a great feeling, the heightened expectations from the Vietnamese public and the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) following this victory bring new challenges. He is now focused on how to continue improving and overcoming future obstacles.

Addressing a moment in the final where he bowed to the referee, Kim Sang-sik clarified that it was a simple misunderstanding. He explained he was performing the Indonesian greeting as the referee approached the technical area, unintentionally repeating it three times. He emphasized that the gesture held no special meaning and was a spontaneous reaction in a tense situation, which the referee also understood.

When asked about surpassing his predecessor Park Hang-seo, who never won this particular title, Kim Sang-sik downplayed the comparison. He acknowledged the significance of being the second Korean coach to lead the Vietnamese national team, demonstrating the capability of Korean coaches. However, he emphasized that his goal is not to outdo Park, whose achievements in Vietnam are undeniable and have transformed Vietnamese football history. Kim Sang-sik stressed his focus on preserving, not surpassing, Park's legacy.

Regarding Shin Tae-yong's departure from the Indonesian national team, Kim Sang-sik admitted to seeking advice from Shin during his time in Indonesia. He anticipated difficult matches against Indonesia under Shin's leadership and frankly confessed that his departure was fortunate. He expressed support for Shin and his future endeavors.

Reflecting on his year in Vietnam, Kim Sang-sik highlighted the ASEAN Cup 2024 victory as his most memorable moment, particularly because a Korean company sponsored the tournament. He expressed his desire to win the championship again, acknowledging the challenges of securing a third consecutive AFF U23 title due to the numerous variables involved. The moment of lifting the trophy with his players remains a cherished memory.

Coaches Shin Tae-yong and Kim Sang-sik (center) after Vietnam's 1-0 victory over Indonesia in the group stage of the ASEAN Cup 2024, at Viet Tri Stadium, Phu Tho, 15/12/2024. Photo: Ngoc Thanh

Looking ahead, Kim Sang-sik expressed gratitude for the passionate support of Vietnamese football fans. He described the kindness and gifts he receives from fans and the appreciation expressed by staff, noting how the national team unites and inspires the Vietnamese people. He acknowledged the pressure of heightened expectations following two recent titles, particularly for the upcoming U23 Asian Cup qualifiers in September and the SEA Games in November. However, he accepts this pressure as an inherent part of his role as coach.

Kim Sang-sik detailed his meticulous approach to coaching, encompassing team dynamics, player skill levels, hydration strategies, nutrition, opponent analysis, and training schedules. He also emphasized the importance of psychological factors in training and match preparation, believing his methods are well-suited to Southeast Asian players. While other coaches have their own approaches, he focuses on effectively conveying his tactics and style to his players.

He contrasted coaching the national team with the U23 team. With the senior team, the key is integrating experienced and new players while motivating the entire squad, including established stars and champions. With the U23 team, his first official tournament experience, he focused on developing the talented but less experienced players into a cohesive unit, implementing effective tactics, and fostering strong performance both on and off the field.

Kim Sang-sik sees his experience with the U23 team as a valuable learning opportunity, recognizing these players as potential future pillars of the national team. His goal is to achieve victory in Southeast Asia with both the U23 and national teams, striving for continuous improvement.

Coach Kim Sang-sik (in black) is injured after being dropped by celebrating players in the AFF U23 Championship 2025 final. Photo: Hai Tu

Kim Sang-sik explained his efforts to connect with his players extend beyond the football field. He visits the therapy room to interact with players, emulates Park Hang-seo's approach, and even brings ginseng from Korea as gifts. These actions aim to create a close and supportive environment, fostering camaraderie within the team. He believes this open communication style resonates with the players.

When asked for advice for Korean coaches interested in working in Southeast Asia, Kim Sang-sik highlighted the similarities between Korean and Vietnamese cultures, particularly the emphasis on personal relationships. He emphasized the importance of emotional connection, open communication, and collaborative problem-solving as keys to success. He acknowledged the criticisms Korean coaches sometimes face online and from fans, but maintained their competence and potential for success in Southeast Asia.

Trung Thu