Indonesian media acknowledges the dominance of Vietnamese football.
Indonesian media have dubbed 2025 'the year of Vietnam' following their historic treble win, while also acknowledging the strategic superiority and resilience of the Indonesian national teams.
The historic treble confirms their position.
2025 witnessed a spectacular performance by Vietnamese football, culminating in a treble of championship titles in the region's most important tournaments. This achievement not only brought glory but also prompted media outlets in neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia, to acknowledge the dominance of the "Golden Star Warriors".
In an analysis, Indonesian newspaper Bola Sport called 2025 "the year of Vietnam" in Southeast Asia. The newspaper highlighted the unique aspect of the Vietnamese teams' journey to victory: all three championships were decided by wins against the host nation in the final.
At the beginning of the year, the Vietnamese national team caused a shock by defeating Thailand to win the AFF Cup right at the Rajamangala Stadium. Mid-year, the U23 Vietnamese team continued to inflict defeat on host nation Indonesia in the Southeast Asian U23 Championship final. Finally, at the 33rd SEA Games, the scenario repeated itself when Vietnam once again overcame Thailand in the men's football final, also at the Rajamangala Stadium.
Bola Sport commented: “Three titles, three finals, three victories over the host nation – that is true dominance for Vietnam in Southeast Asia in 2025.”
Foundation from strategy and legacy
According to Indonesian media analysis, the success of Vietnamese football is not due to luck. It is the result of a well-structured, in-depth development strategy and stability on the coaching bench. Coach Kim Sang-sik is considered a key factor, having inherited and successfully built upon the legacy left by Coach Park Hang-seo.
Under the South Korean strategist, the Vietnamese national teams have continued to maintain their identity, tactical discipline, and a tenacious fighting spirit. Besides winning championships, the fact that both the U23 and U17 Vietnamese teams have qualified for the Asian Championships in 2025 is further evidence of a solid foundation for the future.
The disappointment of the competitors.
In stark contrast to Vietnam's brilliant performance, 2025 proved to be a forgettable year for Indonesian football. Despite high expectations, the Indonesian team suffered a series of crucial defeats, most notably a loss at home in the U23 Southeast Asian Championship final. This raised many questions about the consistency and mental fortitude of the Indonesian players.
Many commentators in Indonesia have had to admit that Vietnam is temporarily outpacing the rest of the region, not only in terms of achievements but also in terms of mentality in high-stakes matches. Their consecutive victories against Thailand and Indonesia in finals have helped Vietnam solidify its image as a new force, a true "giant" of Southeast Asian football.
