FIFA ASEAN Cup: Vietnam's Path to Glory and the Thai Problem

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has just announced a new tournament called the FIFA ASEAN Cup, scheduled from September 24 to October 5. For the Vietnam national team, the draw placed them in Group B alongside Thailand, the Philippines, and Pakistan. The format where only the group winner advances to the final makes the clash against Thailand a do-or-die match – no safety net. Does this FIFA-organized tournament truly bring unforgettable moments as Infantino promised, or is it just a new version of old pains? The tournament is divided into two divisions. Division 1 includes 8 teams, hosted in Indonesia: Group A has Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Bangladesh; Group B has Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Pakistan. Division 2 is hosted in Hong Kong with 6 teams. Notably, the tournament takes place during FIFA Days, forcing clubs to release players. This opens an opportunity for Vietnam to field its strongest squad. But the question remains: Thailand has the same advantage, and they come with a generation of experienced players. From the perspective of someone who has followed Southeast Asian football for 30 years, I see the knockout-only-for-group-winner format as a gamble. In Group B, Vietnam and Thailand are the two favorites. A draw could put both in a difficult position, as the Philippines with their physicality and strength can cause surprises. Pakistan, though weaker, cannot be underestimated. In fact, historical encounters show Thailand often has the upper hand against Vietnam in big matches. But in this new arena, with FIFA's presence, the psychological pressure might shift to them. Infantino said: 'The FIFA ASEAN Cup will bring unforgettable moments.' That is a promise, but also a burden. For Vietnam, an unforgettable moment only comes if they overcome Thailand right from the group stage. I believe Vietnam's attack, with the return of key players like Nguyễn Tiến Linh, will be their main weapon. However, the defense must handle pressure better than in previous AFF Cups. Thailand possesses fast and skillful attackers like Chanathip Songkrasin. Their match will decide the fate of the group. Another notable point is that this tournament is organized by FIFA, not the AFF. This creates a brand and schedule overlap. Will the FIFA ASEAN Cup replace the AFF Cup, or is it just a prestigious friendly? The answer is unclear. But for Vietnamese fans, there is only one measure: the championship. If Vietnam fails to go far, the tournament will be considered a failure, regardless of Infantino's promises. Tactically, coach Kim Sang-sik needs careful calculation. With a round-robin of three matches in 12 days, squad rotation is mandatory. Vietnam has good squad depth, but Thailand is not far behind. I predict the Vietnam–Thailand match will have the lowest odds, where a small mistake can be costly. The pressure from Indonesian stands, where home fans might side with Thailand due to political context, is also a factor to consider. But football is not just tactics. It is stories. And I always write about those no one remembers. In this tournament, a substitute, a defender who fouls, or a goalkeeper who drops the ball might make history. They are the ones who create truly 'unforgettable moments', not just beautiful goals. Remember Aziz Bouhaddouz's own goal at the 2026 World Cup – it was a tragedy, but also a legend. In conclusion, the FIFA ASEAN Cup is an opportunity for Vietnam to affirm its number one position in Southeast Asia. But it is also a double-edged sword. The harsh format, familiar opponents, and pressure from FIFA make the tournament tense. I hope the players understand: unforgettable moments do not come from promises, but from blood and sweat on the pitch.