Statistics prove Indonesia is at a complete disadvantage before the match against Vietnam.
Poor head-to-head record, lack of key players and an uncertain defense put Indonesia at a complete disadvantage before the match against Vietnam at the AFF Cup 2024.
The match between Vietnam and Indonesia on December 15 at the AFF Cup 2024 is not only important in deciding the top spot in Group B, but also an opportunity for Vietnam to continue to prove its strength. Although Indonesia is a team that cannot be underestimated, according to recent statistics, the archipelago team is facing a series of major disadvantages when facing Vietnam.
Poor head-to-head record
One of the factors that has caused Indonesia to face difficulties is its poor head-to-head record against Vietnam in recent AFF Cups. Specifically, in three meetings at the AFF Cup under the leadership of coach Shin Tae-yong, Indonesia has never won against the Vietnamese team. At the AFF Cup 2021, the two teams drew 0-0 in the group stage match. At the AFF Cup 2022, although Indonesia had home field advantage in the first leg of the semi-finals, they still could not win, drawing 0-0. In the second leg at Viet Tri Stadium, Indonesia continued to lose 0-2, thereby being eliminated from the tournament.
Missing key players
Another factor that makes Indonesia difficult is that the squad does not have the services of many important players. In particular, the absence of naturalized players has created a big gap in the quality of the squad. Young players, mostly under 22 years old, do not have enough experience and innovation to make a difference against a strong and confident Vietnam team.
Unstable defense
Although Indonesia has a rather aggressive playing style, their defense lacks discipline and often makes mistakes. In recent matches, Indonesia has conceded many goals due to shaky defense. Notably, in the 3-3 draw with Laos, Indonesia scored two goals from Pratama Arhan’s dangerous throw-ins. However, this cannot cover up the weakness in their defense, which Vietnam can fully exploit.
Vietnam team is strong and confident
On the contrary, the Vietnam national team has a strong and confident squad, especially with the return of key players such as Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Tien Linh, and Van Toan. These players are all in stable form and play an important role in the attacking style of the Vietnam national team. Moreover, the return of stars such as Bui Tien Dung and Duy Manh will also help the national team's defense become more solid.
With home advantage and rising form, the Vietnam team is confident going into this match. Meanwhile, Indonesia will face many big challenges, from poor head-to-head record to insufficient strength. The match on December 15 will certainly be a big challenge for coach Shin Tae-yong's team.
Although Indonesia has no shortage of promising young players, overall, the team still faces many disadvantages against the Vietnam national team. With an outstanding head-to-head record, a strong squad and home field advantage, the Vietnam national team has every right to be confident going into this decisive match.
