Vietnam national team defeats Thailand 3-1 at AFF Cup 2026: Coach Kim Sang Sik's tactics make the difference

On the evening of December 15, 2026, at My Dinh National Stadium (Hanoi), the Vietnam national team convincingly defeated arch-rivals Thailand 3-1 in the first leg of the AFF Cup 2026 semifinals. The match saw impressive performances by players under the guidance of Korean coach Kim Sang Sik, who replaced Philippe Troussier at the beginning of 2026. From the first minutes, Vietnam applied high pressing and controlled the game. In the 12th minute, midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc delivered a precise long pass for striker Nguyen Tien Linh to cut inside and open the scoring. Thailand equalized in the 28th minute through Teerasil Dangda's header from a corner. However, Vietnam regained the lead before half-time: in the 41st minute, defender Do Duy Manh scored with a powerful header from a free kick. In the second half, Thailand pushed forward but missed several chances. In the 68th minute, substitute Pham Tuan Hai capitalized on a Thai defender's mistake to make it 3-1. This crucial victory gives Vietnam a significant advantage ahead of the second leg in Bangkok on December 22. Tactically, Coach Kim Sang Sik used a flexible 4-3-3 formation, shifting to 4-4-2 when defending. Vietnam's rapid transition caught Thailand's defense off guard. The mobility of midfielders Hoang Duc and Nguyen Quang Hai, who constantly swapped positions and threaded passes through the defense, was a key highlight. Match statistics show Vietnam held 48% possession but registered 7 shots on target (against 4), with a conversion rate of 42.8%. Crosses from right-back Van Thanh created multiple dangerous opportunities. The central defensive pair of Bui Hoang Viet Anh and Do Duy Manh played with focus, neutralizing Thailand's central attacks. Coach Kim Sang Sik said after the match: 'I am satisfied with the players' spirit. We prepared thoroughly and executed the plan. But nothing is finished; the second leg will be very difficult.' Meanwhile, Thailand coach Masatada Ishii admitted: 'Vietnam played better and deserved the win. We will correct our mistakes for the return leg.' Vietnamese fans poured onto the streets to celebrate, creating a festive atmosphere across Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. An estimated 15 million viewers watched the live broadcast, a record for an AFF Cup semifinal. In-depth analysis shows that the difference came from Coach Kim's game reading. The Korean strategist previously worked at Busan IPark and Ulsan Hyundai before coming to Vietnam. He brings a modern philosophy emphasizing work rate and quick counter-attacks. Unlike Troussier's possession-based approach, Kim accepts conceding territory to wait for opportunities, which worked perfectly against Thailand. However, concerns remain. Thailand once overturned a 0-2 first-leg deficit against Vietnam in the 2026 AFF Cup (held in 2026) by winning 2-0 at home and advancing on away goals. Coach Kim will ensure his players stay grounded. The second leg at Rajamangala Stadium promises more drama. On an individual level, Nguyen Tien Linh continues to assert his class with his 44th international goal, moving to second on Vietnam's all-time scoring list, behind only Le Cong Vinh (51 goals). Meanwhile, Pham Tuan Hai made a strong impact despite coming off the bench. The lesson from this match is tactical adaptability and high fighting spirit. The Vietnam team under Kim Sang Sik shows they are not only technically strong but also flexible in their approach. If they maintain this form, their chances of reaching the final and winning the AFF Cup 2026 are very bright.