The Vietnamese team is currently in good form.

Back-to-back wins in South Korea are not just good outcomes; they signify a deeper meaning for Vietnam. The team under coach Kim Sang Sik exudes self-assurance, enthusiasm, and swift adaptation by newcomers.

While many opponents inSoutheast Asiaare still troubled by unstable squad strength, the Vietnamese team, on the other hand, is enjoying an almost perfect run-up to the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

The victories in South Korea will generate confidence, excitement, and a sense that everything is on the right track. It is no coincidence that Malaysian media have lavished praise on the team ofCoach Kim Sang Sik. 

TheMakanbolaassessesthe Vietnam national teamis showing the image of a true defending champion, not only winning but doing so with initiative, confidence, and professional depth.

In particular, the 2-1 victory against Yongin FC, a much stronger opponent than the first match, holds even greater value as Coach Kim Sang Sik continuously rotated the squad yet maintained consistency in play.

The most positive aspect right now is not the scoreboard but the atmosphere within the team. After more than a week of high-intensity training in South Korea, the players are reaching ideal physical condition.

More importantly, the new faces are integrating very quickly. Đỗ Hoàng Hên admitted he feels as if he is in a long-standing cohesive unit thanks to the openness of his teammates and coaching staff. Coach Kim Sang Sik aims to build a team that does not rely on a few stars but possesses depth in every position.

The fierce competition in every position makes each training session high-intensity, while also creating motivation for everyone to continuously improve themselves.

That excitement becomes even more valuable when placed against the context of major regional rivals. Indonesia is still unable to call up its strongest squad as many naturalized players are busy with European fixtures, while the process of integrating a new lineup still needs more time.

Thailand also does not have an optimal squad as clubs refused to release players since the upcoming ASEAN Cup is not during FIFA Days. Malaysia continues to place hopes on its naturalized players, but the cohesion with the new coach remains a big question mark ahead of the tournament.

In contrast, the Vietnam team has been assembled since late June, with nearly a month of continuous preparation including full physical, tactical programs and quality test matches. Even Indonesia coach John Herdman had to admit that Vietnam is the top candidate for the 2026 ASEAN Cup title thanks to its stability and systematic preparation.

A notable point under Coach Kim Sang Sik is that the Vietnam team is no longer solely focused on winning. The South Korean manager is gradually building a squad that knows how to control the game, maintain high intensity, press aggressively, and have multiple approaches to the opponent's goal.

Thus, the victories over South Korean sides are evidence of the process of perfecting the playing style, not merely results of friendly matches.

Ahead still lies the toughest test named Gangwon FC before the Vietnam team returns home and enters the friendly match against Myanmar. However, what is happening is enough to bring optimism.