Vietnam Clinches Second Consecutive ASEAN Hyundai Cup Title Under Coach Kim Sang-sik

Vietnam's national football team has once again ascended to the pinnacle of Southeast Asian football, clinching the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup under the guidance of coach Kim Sang-sik. This victory marks a significant achievement, as it is the team's second consecutive title in the prestigious tournament, often dubbed the "World Cup of Southeast Asia."

The decisive final match, held on August 26 in Hanoi, saw Vietnam draw 2-2 against rivals Thailand. This result, combined with their 2-0 victory in the first leg on August 22, gave Vietnam a commanding 4-2 aggregate win. The draw also extended Vietnam's impressive unbeaten run in international matches to 26 games, with 22 wins and 4 draws.

The final match itself was a dramatic affair. Vietnam conceded an early goal in the 12th minute, trailing 0-1 at halftime. However, they found an equalizer in the second half through an own goal by Thai goalkeeper Chatchai Bootprom in the 52nd minute. Thailand regained the lead in the 84th minute with another goal from Watthanai Jaichuenkram, only for Vietnam to secure the championship in stoppage time with a second own goal from the Thai side.

This triumph is Vietnam's fourth ASEAN Cup title overall, adding to their previous wins in 2008, 2018, and 2024. Notably, the 2018 victory was achieved under the stewardship of former coach Park Hang-seo, while Kim Sang-sik led the team to the 2024 and 2026 championships. Kim Sang-sik's success extends beyond the senior team, as he also coaches the U-23 squad and led them to victory in the AFF U-23 Championship last year, further solidifying his "Kim Sang-sik Magic" in Vietnamese football.

Following the win, jubilant fans flooded the streets of major Vietnamese cities, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Waving the national flag, the "Golden Star Red Flag," and chanting "Vietnam vô địch!" (Vietnam champions!), they celebrated the team's historic achievement. Some fans were seen waving the South Korean flag, expressing gratitude to their compatriot coach for leading the team to glory.

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Vietnam vô địch!