Vietnam's coach delivered bold remarks after defeating the Thailand national team to win the ASEAN Cup 2026.
Kim Sang-sik, coach of the Vietnam national team, expressed extreme happiness after leading his team to win the ASEAN Cup twice in a row for the first time in history. After a 2-2 home draw against Thailand in the second leg of the final, Vietnam won 4-2 on aggregate, securing their fourth title following wins in 2008, 2018, and 2024.
Kim Sang-sik said, "Winning two consecutive titles is the result of every player's effort. I feel grateful and happy to have made history in Vietnamese football. Our football will continue to develop, and we will strive to make Vietnamese football even stronger."
"The previous three titles were won away from home, so lifting the trophy on home soil at My Dinh Stadium this time makes me and all the players even happier."
"I want to thank the fans who filled My Dinh Stadium to support the team. This victory belongs to all the fans. Today, I just want to celebrate with the players and enjoy this moment."
On the overall game, he said, "The team was well prepared, but falling behind in the first half made the situation difficult. When I went into the dressing room, I gave instructions and adjusted tactics. I want to thank the players for not giving up."
Kim Sang-sik became the fifth coach after Raddy Avramovic, Peter Withe, Kiatisuk Senamuang, and Mano Polking to win this tournament twice in a row.