The Vietnamese national team is being touted as the top contender for the ASEAN Cup 2024 (AFF Cup) title. But what has fueled the optimism surrounding coach Kim Sang Sik’s squad, especially after a year of doubts?

Before unveiling their roster for the region’s premier tournament, Vietnam was not widely considered a strong favorite. Rivals such as Indonesia, Thailand, and even the Philippines seemed to have an edge in the race for the ASEAN Cup 2024 crown.

This skepticism stemmed from a prolonged crisis in Vietnamese football following coach Park Hang Seo’s departure in early 2023. The national team endured a year without notable achievements across various levels, coupled with underwhelming performances under both Philippe Troussier and Kim Sang Sik.

The struggles extended beyond results. The team lacked a clear playing style, and key players appeared to be out of form. As a result, the Vietnam Football Federation’s (VFF) goal of reaching the ASEAN Cup final seemed overly ambitious.

Vietnam’s transformation into the leading title contender for the ASEAN Cup 2024 didn’t happen overnight or simply because they won all three friendly matches during their recent training camp in South Korea.

A key factor has been the weakened squads of rivals like Thailand and Indonesia, who are not fielding their strongest lineups due to various reasons. This shifts the dynamics of the tournament in Vietnam’s favor.

While it’s not about underestimating Vietnam’s opponents, recent encounters with teams like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines have often highlighted Vietnam’s resilience and potential.

The team’s confidence has been revitalized after their training in South Korea. Crucially, coach Kim Sang Sik now has an important new asset in striker Nguyen Xuan Son, a recently naturalized player who will be eligible to play from the final group-stage match against Myanmar.

In addition, the depth of Vietnam’s squad gives them a competitive edge. The 26 players selected for the ASEAN Cup 2024 boast significant experience, with many ranking among the best in Southeast Asia.

Star players such as Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Hoang Duc, Nguyen Filip, and newcomer Xuan Son are expected to perform at a high level. Their individual brilliance, combined with growing team chemistry, has elevated Vietnam from being overlooked to being the leading contender for the championship.

As things stand, the Vietnamese national team is well-positioned to aim for their next ASEAN Cup title. With regained confidence, key players in form, and a favorable tournament landscape, the dream of lifting the trophy in 2024 is closer than ever.

Duy Nguyen