Vietnam’s victory at the 2024 ASEAN Cup has solidified the position of head coach Kim Sang Sik, but many challenges lie ahead as he leads the national team into new campaigns.

From doubt to triumph

Speaking after leading Vietnam to its third ASEAN Cup title, Kim Sang Sik revealed that he had yet to fully unpack his belongings in the apartment provided by the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF), always ready for the possibility of being dismissed.

His cautious mindset was understandable, as Vietnam’s initial performances under his leadership were unremarkable. Both results and playing style drew criticism before the team’s ultimate success at the 2024 ASEAN Cup.

Now, as a newly crowned hero, Kim Sang Sik has sparked renewed hope among fans, envisioning a brighter future for Vietnamese football.

The 2024 ASEAN Cup victory has secured Kim Sang Sik’s position, but earning full trust and long-term support will require sustained efforts.

For senior players, this triumph might reignite their passion and prolong their contributions for a few more years. However, some may shift their focus to personal priorities, potentially leaving gaps in the squad.

To address this, Kim Sang Sik must develop strategies to gradually introduce replacements and prepare for potential challenges in team composition.

Ambitious targets in 2025

Looking ahead, Kim Sang Sik faces a demanding schedule in 2025, with key goals including securing a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup and leading the U23 team in the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers and the SEA Games 33 in Thailand.

While the U23 Asian Cup qualifiers are set for September and the SEA Games will take place in December, Vietnam’s youth squad poses a concern. Few players in the 2024 training camps have gained consistent playing time at their clubs, with exceptions like Khuat Van Khang, Thai Son, Vi Hao, and Dinh Bac.

This lack of experience highlights a significant challenge for Kim Sang Sik as he prepares for these pivotal competitions.

The ASEAN Cup victory marks an important milestone, but Kim Sang Sik must navigate these challenges to sustain progress. Fans hope this triumph will inspire a resurgence in Vietnamese football, laying the groundwork for future success under the leadership of the South Korean strategist. 

Duy Nguyen