Vietnam's national football team kicked off their ASEAN Cup 2026 campaign with a resounding 7-0 victory over Timor Leste on July 24. While the attacking prowess was on full display, questions have arisen regarding the team's defensive solidity.

Under the guidance of coach Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam's offense dominated the match, with key players such as Dinh Bac, Hoang Hen, and Xuan Son contributing to the scoreline. Dinh Bac notably netted three goals, showcasing the team's attacking depth. However, despite the clean sheet and a lack of injuries, the defense appeared vulnerable at times.

Throughout the match, Vietnam's defense faced challenges, allowing Timor Leste several opportunities to penetrate their backline. For instance, a near miss in the 59th minute highlighted the defensive lapses, as Timor Leste's players managed to break through and hit the post. Coach Kim utilized this match to experiment with a new defensive lineup, which included Le Giang Patrik in goal and a restructured back three.

Despite the overwhelming offensive display, the defensive unit struggled to maintain proper spacing and coordination. The gaps between the center-backs and full-backs were evident, particularly with both midfielders, Nguyen Hoang Duc and Nguyen Quang Hai, often pushing forward, leaving spaces vulnerable to counterattacks.

As the tournament progresses, adjustments will be crucial. The upcoming matches against stronger teams like Indonesia and Singapore will test Vietnam's defensive capabilities further. Coach Kim Sang-sik has emphasized the need for a more disciplined and cohesive defensive strategy to address these weaknesses.

With a roster featuring 12 naturalized players, including formidable forwards from Indonesia, Vietnam's defense must tighten up to avoid being exploited. The team has a week to refine their tactics before facing tougher opponents, making it imperative to strike a balance between their attacking style and defensive responsibilities.