Vietnam and Indonesia commit to delivering their peak performance for the ASEAN U23 championship final
Indonesia's quest for revenge against Vietnam in the ASEAN U23 Football Championship final came up short, as Vietnam emerged victorious with a 1-0 win on July 29 at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta.
The final match, which kicked off at 8pm, was a highly anticipated clash between two formidable teams. Vietnam, the defending champions, were determined to secure another title, while Indonesia, who lost to Vietnam in last year's final on penalties, were eager to turn the tables.
Vietnam's midfielder Viktor Lê expressed confidence before the match, stating, "We have prepared well, we are taking each step one by one, and are ready for a good result in the final match. We will bring the championship trophy back to Vietnam." Coach Kim Sang-sik shared similar sentiments, saying, "We have one match to go (to win the gold medal). We are ready to contribute and hope for victory to meet supporters' demand."
Indonesia's coach, Gerald Vanenburg, admitted that Vietnam had always been a formidable opponent. He hoped that Indonesia could win the game in 90 minutes, but was also ready for penalties. However, Vietnam's strong defensive effort, resilience under pressure, and tactical discipline proved decisive.
The decisive goal was scored by Nguyễn Công Phương in the first half, and Nguyễn Đình Bắc was named player of the match. Despite Indonesia's top scorer, Jens Raven, having several opportunities, Indonesia was unable to capitalise, which played a significant role in Vietnam's victory.
The victory marks Vietnam's third consecutive title in the ASEAN U23 Football Championship, showcasing their regional dominance. This outcome aligns with pre-tournament expectations that Indonesia and Thailand were Vietnam's main rivals, with matches against Indonesia always intense and competitive.
Thailand secured third place with a 3-1 win over the Philippines on July 28. Despite Indonesia's three players, Arkhan Fikri, Toni Firmansyah, and Jens Raven, being treated for injuries before the final, their condition was reported to be good, and they had been prepared for the final since the start of the tournament.
Coach Kim Sang-sik of Vietnam hopes to secure a hat-trick of ASEAN U23 Football Championship titles in the future. The tournament, which was live on FPT and VTV channels, was a testament to the growing strength and competitiveness of football in the ASEAN region.
[1] Vietnam wins third consecutive ASEAN U23 Football Championship
[2] Indonesia and Thailand are Vietnam's main rivals in the ASEAN U23 Football Championship
[3] Key factors in Vietnam's victory in the ASEAN U23 Football Championship final
[4] Analysis: Vietnam's continued dominance in the regional U23 level football
[1] The Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta echoed with joy as Vietnam won their third consecutive ASEAN U23 Football Championship final, defeating Indonesia with a 1-0 score.
[2] In the ASEAN U23 Football Championship, Vietnam's formidable football team consistently proved their dominance, with Indonesia and Thailand serving as their main rivals.
