* Indonesia - Vietnam: 8 p.m. today, on VnExpress.

The final of the AFF U23 Championship between Vietnam and Indonesia is set to be a heated affair, with expert Doan Minh Xuong cautioning the Vietnamese team about potential gamesmanship from the home side. He emphasizes the importance of composure and avoiding retaliation.

Xuong believes both teams deservedly reached the final. While Vietnam had a slightly easier path, their performance reflects their capabilities. Indonesia, with home advantage and strong morale, overcame a tough Thailand team in the semifinals. This final between the defending champions and the hosts is a "dream final," Xuong says, adding that the history between the two teams adds to the excitement. He predicts an even contest where the team that capitalizes on opportunities will win.

Indonesian players (in red) play aggressively in the semi-final against Thailand, on the evening of 25/7. Photo: Anh Khoa

Indonesian players (in red) play aggressively in the semi-final against Thailand, on the evening of 25/7. Photo: Anh Khoa

Vietnam boasts a balanced squad with experienced players, mostly from the V-League and First Division. However, Xuong notes a lack of depth and a true midfield leader. While Xuan Bac and Khuat Van Khang have shown effort, they haven't fully filled that role. The absence of a top-class striker also presents a challenge in scoring goals.

Indonesia, playing at home, will be highly motivated. Their striker, Jens Raven, and midfielder, Arkhan Fikri, are key players. However, like Vietnam, Indonesia has struggled to score consistently outside of their 8-0 win against Brunei.

Given the history between these teams, including past incidents in the 2019 SEA Games and the 2023 AFF U23 Championship, Xuong expects a fierce and potentially contentious match. He anticipates Indonesia will start aggressively, fueled by their home crowd at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. He warns that they may resort to gamesmanship and rough play. Vietnam, he suggests, should start cautiously, focusing on a solid defense and sharp counter-attacks, avoiding getting drawn into Indonesia's style of play or succumbing to crowd pressure.

Xuong stresses the importance of mental fortitude for the Vietnamese players, urging them to remain calm and avoid retaliating to any provocation. He advises them to play tightly, pressuring the opponent but avoiding any fouls that could lead to red cards or penalties. With VAR being implemented for the final, all actions on the pitch will be scrutinized, although Xuong acknowledges that VAR decisions can sometimes be controversial.

Vietnamese players celebrate the goal that sealed a 2-1 victory in the semi-final against the Philippines on the afternoon of 25/7. Photo: Anh Khoa

Vietnamese players celebrate the goal that sealed a 2-1 victory in the semi-final against the Philippines on the afternoon of 25/7. Photo: Anh Khoa

Vietnam conceded a goal against the Philippines from a throw-in, a tactic that Indonesia also uses effectively and scored from against the Philippines. Xuong advises Vietnam to minimize clearing the ball towards the sidelines in their own half. Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien needs to be protected from being blocked, allowing him to deal with throw-ins effectively. Adequate players should be positioned to clear any second balls after throw-ins.

Xuong expresses some concern about Vietnam's defense. While center-backs Pham Ly Duc and Nguyen Hieu Minh are strong in the air, they are not as agile. Their teammates need to provide cover when facing a full-on attack.

Ultimately, Xuong believes the team that handles the pressure better and displays greater resilience will prevail. He trusts coach Kim Sang-sik's experience to guide the Vietnamese players through the pressure, avoid provocations, and maintain discipline. If they can do so, Vietnam has a strong chance of winning the championship.

Duc Dong