Coach Kim Sang Sik: 'Vietnam Team Will Overcome the Pain of Losing to Thailand'

Vietnam's national team enters the final group-stage match of the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup with one clear command: beat Pakistan. After two matches, coach Kim Sang Sik's side have three points and an uncertain path. The loss to Thailand left a deep mental scar, but Kim insists: “The whole team will overcome this pain and look forward.” The press conference was tense, dominated by questions about the goalkeeper's readiness. The current situation was decided earlier. One win and one loss in two games was not the plan. Losing to Thailand not only cost top spot but also took away control of the qualification race. Vietnam's only door is a win against Pakistan, a runner-up finish, and a third-place playoff. It is a modest target compared to initial expectations, but also the ultimate test of character. The goalkeeper story dominated. Lê Giang Patrik, the presumed No. 1, suffered an elbow injury requiring two stitches. Kim said medical staff will assess him today and tomorrow, and he will consult the goalkeeper coach before deciding. He also named Trung Kiên as a potential replacement—a sign of detailed preparation, but also of real uncertainty. Tactically, little was revealed. Kim said only that the staff watched video of the opponent, a routine step. The bigger factor is how the team handles goalkeeper uncertainty. A backup keeper playing in a must-win match faces enormous pressure, and Pakistan can exploit set pieces or speed if the defense loses focus. Kim's message has two layers: immediate victory and long-term development. He called the match an opportunity for players to gain experience and mature. This may ease pressure, but it could also serve as an excuse if the result goes wrong. In modern football, managing risk through narrative is common. Data is scarce. No xG or possession statistics were provided. Three points from two games is enough to hope, but not enough to feel safe. Against Pakistan, a dominant win would boost faith, a narrow win would raise questions, and a non-win would trigger collapse. Kim was unusually grateful to fans, thanking them twice after a painful defeat. He understands the national mood. A good result can soothe it; a bad one can turn sorrow into anger. In the long term, the third-place match will not define Kim's tenure, but the Pakistan match marks a state transition. Victory allows him to continue building. Defeat invites serious questions about squad depth, coaching philosophy, and VFF patience. Football has no adjectives—only results. So before the whistle on October 2, eyes will be on the lineup, especially the goalkeeper. If Patrik starts, it signals trust. If Trung Kiên starts, it signals a quiet transition. Either way, the team must show they have moved past the Thailand pain. Words are one thing; the pitch will deliver the final verdict.