Vietnamese forward Nguyen Tien Linh (white jersey) played the first half in Vietnam's 2-0 victory over Laos in the fifth match of Group F, Asian Cup 2027 final qualifiers, at the new Laos National Stadium on 19/11. Photo: DH.

On the evening of 19/11, Vietnam defeated Laos 2-0 in the fifth match of Group F of the Asian Cup 2027 final qualifiers, keeping alive their hopes of surpassing group leaders Malaysia. However, the performance at Laos National Stadium did not satisfy fans or experts. The team struggled in the first half, scoring only in the 68th minute from a penalty after an opponent's error, converted by naturalized forward Nguyen Xuan Son. After tense moments, Pham Tuan Hai capitalized on a fumbled save by the Laotian goalkeeper in the third minute of added time to seal the victory.

Expert Phan Anh Tu noted this scenario is common for Vietnam under coach Kim Sang-sik, especially against weaker opponents. "In the first half, the team often wears down opponents before launching more attacks in the second half," he said. "But low scoring efficiency is a chronic issue. Players often mishandle the ball and lack power when finishing. There are situations requiring finesse where they instead shoot wildly off target."

He cited Nguyen Tien Linh's attempts, particularly in the 31st minute. Vietnam's striker had a decent first touch, but his left-footed shot went over the bar. Six minutes later, midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc had ample space in the penalty area but his shot lacked danger, allowing the Laotian goalkeeper to save it. In the 60th minute, substitute forward Pham Tuan Hai's shot was too high, hitting the crossbar.

The former general secretary of the Hanoi Football Federation added that Vietnam often struggles against defensively deep opponents, a problem dating back to coach Park Hang-seo's tenure. In contrast, Laos under coach Ha Hyeok-jun showed progress with a 5-4-1 formation and a clear game plan. He noted that whenever Do Duy Manh had the ball, the home team immediately pressed with two players. "That was intentional, not accidental," he stated. "Laos improved with tight, disciplined defense and organized counter-attacks. But their class and ball control are not yet comparable to Vietnam's."

Meanwhile, former Vietnam national team fitness coach Bae Ji-won observed many errors in the players' ball control, especially in the attacking line and on both wings during the final phase. "Coach Kim always prefers fast and effective play. This demands players to execute at high speed, with composure and accuracy, but they have not achieved this," Bae said. "In the early stages, coach Kim often had Vietnam attack down the flanks and exploit space behind the opponent's defense. Now, he wants more central attacking options, but there are still many errors."

After the match, coach Kim himself admitted his experimental plan, involving a four-defender system and quick attacks, was unsuccessful.

According to Bae, a positive aspect of the match was the coaching staff's quick reaction by changing the entire attacking line. Nguyen Xuan Son, Pham Tuan Hai, Pham Gia Hung, and Nguyen Hai Long replaced Nguyen Tien Linh, Le Van Do, Nguyen Van Vi, and Le Pham Thanh Long at the start of the second half. "Coach Kim maintained control of the game with backup plans," the Korean expert noted. "The attacking line in the second half was better and executed the coach's intentions significantly more effectively."

Expert Phan Anh Tu agreed, praising Tuan Hai's good movement and acceleration, and Xuan Son's ability to shield the ball and create space for teammates. These contributions helped creative midfielders Hoang Duc and Quang Hai showcase their abilities. "When there are forwards with good movement, passes become perfect. That's the difference," he added.

Additionally, the pitch condition hindered Vietnam. Bae Ji-won assessed the new Laos National Stadium pitch as too soft and uneven. The two matches against Nepal at Binh Duong Stadium and Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City were affected by heavy rain, preventing players from performing at their best.

The Vietnam national team (red jersey) lost 0-4 to Malaysia in the second match of Group F, Asian Cup 2027 final qualifiers, at Bukit Jalil Stadium, Malaysia on 10/6. Photo: Hai Tu.

Both experts believe that if Vietnam applies this playing style against Malaysia, they will face greater challenges due to the difference in player quality. "Vietnam needs to try harder if they want to beat Malaysia. However, it also depends on their approach," Bae said. "If Malaysia defends like Laos, it won't be easy for Vietnam. If they commit to attacking to show improvement, it opens up more opportunities."

Malaysia defeated Vietnam 4-0 in June with 7 naturalized players of European and South American origin. However, this group is currently banned from football activities for 12 months, effective from 26/9, for falsifying naturalization documents. This offense will likely result in Malaysia forfeiting the 0-3 match against Vietnam.

"I think it will be difficult for Malaysia to avoid a point deduction. This could affect their morale when they meet Vietnam next year," expert Phan Anh Tu said. "Vietnam has done well by defeating Nepal and Laos, waiting for the necessary conditions. Securing a spot in the Asian Cup 2027 is inevitable."

Vietnam will host Malaysia on 31/3/2026 in the final match of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. The team is currently second in Group F with 12 points, three points behind Malaysia.

Hieu Luong