Vietnam's Imperfect Start: Dinh Bac Shines, Debutants Impress

A 25th-minute goal from Dinh Bac secured a 1-0 victory for Vietnam against the Philippines, extending their unbeaten run to 27 matches. Yet the performance raised concerns for coach Kim Sang Sik, especially the team's inability to control the game after taking the lead. Vietnam dropped deep following the opener, allowing the Philippines to dominate possession and create pressure. Defensive errors appeared, while the low block left few players available for transitions, limiting the chances for a second goal. The Philippines hit the crossbar and created several opportunities, but goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang produced an outstanding display to keep a clean sheet. The match also marked the debuts of Adou Minh, Khoa Ngo, and Williams Minh Hoang. Adou Minh impressed in central defense with composure and strength. Khoa Ngo added a useful attacking outlet after coming on in the 70th minute. Most notably, 19-year-old Williams Minh Hoang, born in 2026, started on the right wing and created the only goal with a low cross that deflected off a defender. Hoang stands 1.90 meters tall and usually plays as a forward. With Xuan Son occupying the central role, Hoang was deployed wide, but Xuan Son's early tournament exit due to injury could hand the young forward more responsibility. His intelligent movement, technique, and European-style direct play suggest he has the potential to become a long-term option for Kim Sang Sik. One match is not enough to judge the debutants, but they offered fresh possibilities at a challenging time. Vietnam's opening victory was far from complete, yet beyond the three points, it revealed new alternatives for a team whose coach has spent considerable energy reshuffling familiar personnel.