Indonesian media 'quietly celebrate' as Vietnam lose three key players ahead of FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Indonesian media are struggling to hide their excitement as news of Vietnam national team losing three key players due to injuries ahead of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 spreads. On football forums across the archipelago, many commentators claim this is the chance for Indonesia to end their recent winless run against Vietnam. However, from a professional standpoint, Vietnam's losses are not simply about missing personnel but alsoalter the entire tactical plan that coach Kim Sang-sik has built. According to information from the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF), midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc, defender Do Duy Manh, and winger Van Vy will not recover in time for the upcoming tournament. All three are key components in the South Korean coach's scheme. Hoang Duc, once dubbed the 'heart' of the midfield, provided two assists in the 3-0 victory over Indonesia not long ago. Meanwhile, Van Vy is highly rated for his pace and ability to support attacks from the left flank, playing a crucial role in building play from the back. Do Duy Manh, though less flashy, is an indispensable pillar in defense. This context gives Indonesian media reason to be optimistic. Bola Sport wrote: 'Indonesia cannot miss this opportunity. The opponent's main attacking card is in the hospital.' However, analysts argue that this assessment is somewhat one-sided, as Vietnam still has many alternatives. The question is whether the red-clad team can maintain their surprise element and transition ability when missing individuals with exceptional qualities. Looking back at the 3-0 win over Indonesia in their most recent meeting, Van Vy's role was particularly prominent. Not only did he score the opening goal, but he also frequently stretched the opponent's defense with direct runs into space behind Indonesia's left-back. Every time Vietnam regained possession, the ball was almost immediately switched to Van Vy for him to receive and create unpredictability. His presence helped Vietnam escape pressing effectively, turning dangerous defensive situations into sharp counter-attacks. Without him, Vietnam will struggle to pose a constant threat from the left, and opponents can focus more on controlling the central midfield. Furthermore, Hoang Duc was the one who controlled the tempo and made decisive passes. In the aforementioned 3-0 win, he provided two assists. His game-reading and positioning helped Vietnam dominate midfield duels. If he is missing, Kim Sang-sik will have to completely rebuild the midfield, testing options like Nguyen Quang Hai or Truong Van Thai Quy, but few can match Hoang Duc's long and medium-range passing. Do Duy Manh's absence could affect defensive solidity. Vietnam always defends better when Duy Manh is present, thanks to his experience and defensive organization. Kim Sang-sik must now place trust in younger defenders like Nguyen Thanh Binh or Bui Hoang Viet Anh. These players have potential but are unproven in high-pressure environments such as an ASEAN Cup. The loss of three pillars makes the coach's tactical schemes more predictable, as replacements lack the necessary understanding. Nevertheless, this is not the first time Vietnamese football faced a squad crisis. In 2026, the team played without many regulars in the AFF Cup group stage but still advanced convincingly. The improvisational culture and fighting spirit of Vietnamese players have always been the fans' pillar. Moreover, Indonesia's over-optimism could backfire. Underestimating an opponent, even unconsciously, might lead to complacency and costly mistakes. Kim Sang-sik reportedly had a backup plan since hearing about Van Vy's injury in late August. He tested some new faces in recent friendlies, including young midfielder Nguyen Van Truong, who impressed in an attacking midfield role. Switching from a 4-2-3-1 to a 3-4-3 formation is also a viable option, utilizing attacking wing-backs. This flexible tactical framework could reduce dependence on individual brilliance and encourage collective play. Vietnamese fans have the right to worry, but they should also remember that the team has overcome bigger adversities. Even with three key players missing, Vietnam's squad quality remains relatively high for the region. Replacement players like Nguyen Van Truong, Khue Van Khang, or Tran Bao Toan have all played in the V-League and carry the desire to prove themselves. Positional competition could even inject new energy. On the other hand, Indonesia also has its own problems. They have lost to Vietnam three consecutive times in official tournaments, and the psychological fear may still linger. Indonesian media hype could inadvertently add pressure on their own team. If Indonesia fails to win when the opponent is depleted, the criticism will be even harsher. Tactically, Kim Sang-sik needs specific adjustments. Without Van Vy, full-backs may be asked to push higher but must ensure defensive coverage. Using a false nine who drops deep could ease the midfield overload. Additionally, crosses from wide areas or small triangle combinations in central zones can create space in the final third. Everything depends on the coaching staff's adjustments and the remaining key players' ability to read the game. Before the ball rolls, all analysis is just theory. But one thing is certain: matches between Vietnam and Indonesia always carry special emotions. Pressure is on both teams, and the more mentally resilient side will advance. Facing these challenges, Vietnam will have to adopt a more compact, disciplined, and efficient style. This is where the experience of seasoned players like Nguyen Van Quyet or Nguyen Tien Linh needs to be brought to the fore. Indonesian media may argue they hold the edge, but football is never decided on paper. Vietnam can still spring a surprise. History has proven that underestimated teams often produce miracles. Let us wait and see whether Kim Sang-sik's men can achieve something special at this year's tournament.