Vietnam defeated Indonesia 1-0 at Bung Karno stadium on 29/7, securing their third consecutive title. Meanwhile, Indonesia finished as runners-up for the second time in a row.
Coach Tony Ho called it a dull match, but praised the visiting team's performance. "Indonesia just kept the ball circulating around midfield, while Vietnam defended and counter-attacked intelligently," he told Bola. "They were superior in both tactics and quality, especially in individual ball control, while we lost the ball easily."
Coach Tony Ho, born in 1957 and holding a UEFA Pro license, has coached several clubs in the Indonesian league such as PSM Makassar, Persiraja, Persipura, and Persebaya.
 |
Vietnamese forward Nguyen Dinh Bac (left) clashes with an Indonesian player during the 2025 AFF U23 Championship final at Gelora Bung Karno stadium, Indonesia, on 29/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu
Indonesia used a 3-4-3 formation, but Tony Ho felt they were always short of midfielders. This forced the hosts to push the ball wide, falling into Vietnam's pre-planned defensive setup. He also felt Vietnam's use of gamesmanship and deep defending was understandable.
"Vietnam didn't need to play beautifully. They just wanted to win at all costs," Tony Ho said. "They played negative football, with provocations, frequent falls, and cramps on the field."
Meanwhile, Indonesian legend Rully Nere strongly criticized the performance of Gerald Vanenburg's team. "The players were naive, too focused on the opponent instead of themselves," the 68-year-old former midfielder told Antara news agency.
In previous matches, Nere observed that Indonesian players were confident in one-on-one situations, playing possession football with short passes. But last night's match at Bung Karno was different. Moreover, Indonesia overreacted to the referee whenever they felt a decision went against them.
"Every time something happened, Indonesian players crowded around the referee," Nere commented. "Excuse me if I say it's the behavior of a local tournament. It's not good. This is the national team. They have to play well to make the fans happy."
Highlights of Vietnam's 1-0 victory over Indonesia in the AFF U23 Championship final.
Conceding a goal in the 37th minute forced Indonesia to push higher up the field, but they lacked creativity. Tony Ho believed their ball circulation was too slow, dwelling too long in their own half, while the forwards were reluctant to move and find space.
"Vietnam also anticipated Robi Darwis' strong throw-ins. Therefore, they cleared the ball far from the goal, frustrating the Indonesian players," Tony Ho said. "In the future, Indonesia must find ways to improve the effectiveness of set pieces, aerial duels, creativity, and player concentration in the penalty box."
After this tournament, Vanenburg will continue to lead Indonesia in preparation for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship qualifiers in September. For the 33rd SEA Games in November, the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) plans to find a new coach.
Reviewing the Dutch coach's first tournament, Rully Nere said Vanenburg also has a lot to learn while working in Indonesia. "He also has to learn about the Indonesian character. This is not the Netherlands," the former Indonesian international said.
Compiled by Trung Thu
