Vietnam has advanced to the SEA Games 33 men's football final, setting up a clash with regional rival Thailand. The Vietnamese team secured their spot by defeating the Philippines 2-0 in the semi-final yesterday, 15/12. Later, players watched Thailand overcome Malaysia 1-0 to earn their place in the final.
Defender Nguyen Hieu Minh expressed confidence ahead of the final. "Thailand was not overly dominant against Malaysia. Vietnam has no need to be timid," Hieu Minh stated before the team's practice this afternoon, 16/12. He added that the coaching staff would analyze match footage to further prepare the squad.
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Defender Nguyen Hieu Minh speaks to reporters before U22 Vietnam's practice at RBAC University field this afternoon, 16/12/2025. Photo: Hieu Luong |
Defender Nguyen Hieu Minh speaks to reporters before U22 Vietnam's practice at RBAC University field this afternoon, 16/12/2025. Photo: Hieu Luong
The team's morale is high after reaching the final, according to Hieu Minh, who was born in 2004. Vietnam is now poised to secure its third title in 2025, following victories in the ASEAN Cup 2024 and U23 Southeast Asia 2025. The final, scheduled for 18/12 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, echoes the ASEAN Cup final second leg, where Vietnam defeated the hosts 3-2.
Coach Kim Sang-sik has rallied the team, with Hieu Minh quoting him this morning: "'The senior players achieved it, and you must too.'" Hieu Minh affirmed the team's readiness for any scenario, including extra time or a penalty shootout, stating they are prepared to play for the full duration against their opponent.
Hieu Minh, who plays for PVF-CAND club, emphasized the team's thorough physical preparation for the tournament. He highlighted the squad's unity, which has forged a resilient and formidable collective.
Addressing potential criticism of their playing style, Hieu Minh remarked, "People might consider our approach boring, but it is our distinct style." He underscored the defenders' primary role: "As defenders, our first priority is to prevent conceding goals and falling behind. The forwards are responsible for scoring."
Vietnam's defense will need to closely monitor Yotsakorn Burapha, the leading scorer in SEA Games 33 men's football with 6 goals from three matches. Hieu Minh outlined their strategy: "He is a player we must watch. We need to press him, reduce his playing space, and restrict his powerful finishing."
Vietnam's journey to the final included group stage victories over Laos (2-1) and Malaysia (2-0). The semi-final against the Philippines proved challenging, with Coach Kim Sang-sik's squad only breaking the deadlock in the 89th minute. Hieu Minh recounted the coach's halftime address, where he implored players to exert more effort for national pride, urging them to seize a potential career-defining moment.
Coach Kim and his team have one day remaining for final preparations. The highly anticipated match against Thailand is scheduled for 7:30 PM on 18/12.
