Vietnam and Indonesia are considered new arch-rivals in Southeast Asia, particularly during the period when South Korean coaches Park Hang-seo and Shin Tae-yong were adversaries. Their many tense matches, often marked by physical clashes, became notable.

Key incidents include Pratama Arhan's dangerous tackle on Nguyen Tuan Anh during the second round of World Cup 2022 qualifiers – Asian region. Defender Doan Van Hau also drew attention for a foul that seriously injured Evan Dimas at the SEA Games 2019, as well as a series of controversial clashes in the AFF Cup 2022 semifinals, which included a dive by Dutch-born midfielder Marc Klok.

Vietnamese defender Doan Van Hau received a yellow card after a clash with an Indonesian player in the second leg of the AFF Cup 2022 semifinals at My Dinh stadium, Hanoi on 9/1/2023. *Photo: Hieu Luong*

Before the 4th round of Group A match in the ASEAN Cup 2026 at Pakansari stadium, Indonesian media revisited this issue. Journalists also asked coach John Herdman and captain Rizky Ridho, at a press conference at Gelora Bung Karno stadium on 2/8, how Indonesia would maintain composure against Vietnam's 'habit of provocation'.

However, Ridho asserted that Indonesia is not swayed by discussions about aggressive play. 'That is unlikely to happen as it did a few years ago because the match will have var', Ridho said. 'Vietnam will surely be as cautious as we are'.

Born in 2001, Ridho is a rare local Indonesian talent who can compete for a national team spot against players of Dutch descent. This center-back is also known for his composure and captained Indonesia to a SEA Games 2023 gold medal, subsequently leading them to the semifinals of the U23 Asia 2024. For the ASEAN Cup 2026, Serie A center-back Jay Idzes is not participating, thus Ridho has earned the trust of his teammates.

Indonesian center-back Rizky Ridho played in the AFF Cup 2022. *Photo: Bola*

After two matches, Indonesia secured victories against Cambodia 5-1 and Timor Leste 3-0. The team currently sits second in Group A with 6 points, trailing Singapore by one point but having played one fewer match. Meanwhile, Vietnam is third with 4 points.

'If we defeat Vietnam, we will automatically advance to the semifinals. More importantly, we are playing at home', Ridho stated. 'Vietnam possesses many quality players and is the reigning champion. They will provide a good test for us'.

The head-to-head record favors Indonesia, with 11 wins, 11 draws, and 9 losses. In their last 5 encounters, Indonesia has won three and lost two.

This marks the first time Indonesia has achieved three consecutive victories against Vietnam. Ridho will share this valuable experience with his teammates, emphasizing focus and adherence to the coach's instructions. 'The skill gap between us and Vietnam is very close. We simply need to concentrate on ourselves', the 25-year-old center-back added.

By Duc Dong and Hieu Luong