Vietnam’s decade-long unbeaten run against Malaysia ends in third-place defeat
Vietnam missed out on a medal at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 after losing 1-0 to Malaysia in the third-place match on October 5, ending an unbeaten run against their opponents that had lasted more than a decade.
Fergus Tierney scored the decisive goal in the 62nd minute, while a second-half penalty awarded to Vietnam was overturned following a VAR review.
Match highlight
Kim Sang-sik’s side began positively, controlling possession and pushing forward in search of an early breakthrough. Hai Long tried his luck with a left-footed shot from outside the penalty area in the fourth minute, but his effort missed the target.
Hoang Duc’s return helped Vietnam move the ball fluently through midfield, while Ngo Dang Khoa brought energy on his first start. However, their early pressure produced few clear opportunities, and the tempo gradually slowed.
After the cooling break, Kim switched Hai Long and Dang Khoa between the flanks, but Vietnam continued to struggle to open up Malaysia’s defence.
Malaysia threatened in the 35th minute when a careless Hoang Duc pass allowed Bergson to shoot from distance, forcing Patrik Le Giang into a diving save.
Six minutes later, Quentin Cheng fouled Hai Long near the edge of the penalty area, but the Hanoi FC midfielder’s resulting free-kick failed to beat the goalkeeper.
The teams reached half-time goalless, and Vietnam resumed with renewed attacking intent.
In the 50th minute, Hoang Duc released Hai Long, who combined with Tien Anh before a cross reached Minh Hoang. His header caused little concern, and the forward subsequently sent a left-footed effort wide from outside the area.
Kim introduced Dinh Bac for Minh Hoang on the hour, but Malaysia struck just two minutes later.
Receiving the ball near the edge of the box, Tierney turned and fired through Bui Hoang Viet Anh’s legs, beating Le Giang with a well-placed finish.
Vietnam sent on Van Do and appeared to have earned a route back into the match when the referee awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute. After consulting VAR, however, he ruled that Harith Haiqal’s challenge was legitimate and reversed the decision.
Minh Khoa, Xuan Manh and Tuan Tai were also introduced as Vietnam searched for an equaliser, but their late pressure lacked the cutting edge needed to break through.
Malaysia held on to secure bronze, leaving Vietnam to finish fourth in Division 1 and conclude their campaign without a medal.
