*Timor Leste - Vietnam: 20:30h friday 24/7, on VnExpress.

Coach Jose Pedro holds a press conference at Chonburi Stadium, Thailand on the afternoon of 23/7, ahead of the opening match against Vietnam in the ASEAN Cup 2026. Photo: Duc Dong

Timor Leste coach Jose Pedro, a Portuguese national, expressed his ambition to instill a Spanish-inspired ball-possession style into his team. He believes this approach is crucial for creating scoring opportunities, especially when facing a strong opponent like Vietnam in the ASEAN Cup 2026.

"The gap between us and Spain is still very wide", Pedro admitted during a press conference on the afternoon of 23/7. "However, I like to build our play around their ball-possession style. I believe keeping possession is the best way to approach the opponent's goal, and we will try to create something when we face Vietnam".

Pedro emphasized that Timor Leste's strength lies in its collective spirit and unity, rather than individual talent. He cited the team's victory over Brunei in the play-off match, which secured their spot in the tournament, as proof of their cohesion. "Our greatest strength lies in unity, operating as a cohesive unit rather than relying on any individual", he said. "Only a collective spirit can help us create an upset against a very strong Vietnam".

Timor Leste will play their opening Group A match against Vietnam at Chonburi Stadium, Thailand, as their home country lacks a suitable venue. The team includes 13 players who compete abroad, with six based in Europe. Despite this, they are often considered underdogs, having been eliminated from the group stage in all four previous tournament appearances.

Timor Leste players train at Chonburi Stadium, Thailand on the evening of 23/7, preparing to host Vietnam in the opening Group A match of the ASEAN Cup 2026. Photo: Duc Dong

Evaluating Vietnam, Pedro conveyed significant respect for their opponent's strength across all lines. He highlighted that Vietnam features three naturalized players from Brazil, which he believes enhances the technical quality of their attack. "We have great respect for Vietnam. Their naturalized players bring a difference and elevate their attacking prowess", Pedro observed. "However, they are also a balanced team across all three lines, not solely dependent on those three players. I have watched them play and they show cohesion from defense, through midfield, to attack".

Timor Leste captain Anizo Correia echoed his coach's respect for Vietnam but maintained an optimistic outlook on their chances of victory. "We have prepared thoroughly to fight Vietnam for 90 minutes. We are optimistic about securing a victory. We respect Vietnam but will enter the field with a winning mentality", Correia stated.

Duc Dong