A Hard-Fought Victory

Before the match, experts widely anticipated an easy victory for Vietnam, even with Cambodia bolstering their squad with five naturalized players. Under head coach Kim Sang Sik, Vietnam had been in outstanding form, remaining unbeaten in their last nine matches. This marked a stark contrast to their struggles before Kim’s arrival, when the "Golden Dragons" endured seven straight defeats, suffered an early exit from the Asian Cup group stage, and failed to progress in the World Cup qualifiers.

Statistics show that the Vietnam national team has been steadily improving under South Korean coach Kim Sang Sik. In 13 matches under his leadership, they have recorded eight wins, two draws, and only three losses. Their most recent triumph came in the AFF Cup 2024, where they defeated Thailand 5-3 on aggregate to claim the title. Understandably, Kim Sang Sik’s squad was determined to beat Cambodia to gain momentum ahead of their Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Laos on March 25.

Meanwhile, Cambodia had been struggling, having lost to Pakistan in the first round of World Cup qualifiers and falling to Sri Lanka in the Asian Cup qualification play-offs. History was also against them, with ten consecutive defeats to Vietnam. Despite the odds, Cambodian head coach Koji Gyotoku remained optimistic:

"We may not be 100% capable of winning, but we will give our best. If we beat Vietnam, it would be like we are the champions of Southeast Asia."

Despite playing away, Cambodia started confidently and caused early problems for Vietnam. However, the hosts soon took control, determined to secure victory. The breakthrough came in the 26th minute when Hai Long delivered a stunning free-kick reminiscent of David Beckham, leaving the Cambodian goalkeeper with no chance. The score was 1-0 for Vietnam.

Vietnam doubled their lead in the 35th minute after a chaotic scramble in Cambodia’s box, with Văn Vĩ reacting quickest to fire home. Just four minutes later, Hai Long nearly grabbed a brace, but the Cambodian goalkeeper produced a brilliant save to deny him. The first half ended 2-0 in Vietnam’s favor.

Cambodia showed great resilience in the second leg, pressing forward in search of a goal. In the 62nd minute, Vietnam launched a rapid counterattack, with Hai Long racing into the box, only to be thwarted again by the Cambodian goalkeeper. Shortly after, Cambodia pulled one back in the 64th minute. Following a central attacking play, the ball found Samuel, wearing the number 15 jersey, who unleashed a powerful shot that left goalkeeper Đình Triệu helpless, making the score 1-2.

Vietnam pushed hard for a third goal, creating at least five clear chances but failing to convert. The most notable opportunity came in the 84th minute when Thành Chung sent a long pass for Văn Vĩ to break free. However, the Nam Định winger missed the target in a one-on-one situation. Cambodia nearly punished Vietnam in stoppage time, but the hosts held on for a narrow 2-1 victory.

Despite being expected to cruise past Cambodia, Vietnam had to grind out a win, especially as they found themselves on the back foot in the second half. The performance highlighted areas for improvement as Kim Sang Sik’s side prepares to face Laos in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers on March 25. More importantly, Vietnam still has work to do to establish itself as a true powerhouse in Southeast Asian football.