Vietnam head coach Kim Sang Sik has claimed that even Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo would struggle to score against his team's goalkeeper, following Vietnam's 2-0 victory over Thailand in the first leg of the 2026 ASEAN Championship final, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
The match, played on home soil, saw Vietnam take a commanding lead in the two-legged tie. Kim Sang Sik's bold statement came in response to questions about his team's defensive solidity, with the coach expressing full confidence in his goalkeeper's form and ability to repel world-class attackers.
According to CNN Indonesia, the coach's remarks were made in the aftermath of the first-leg win, which puts Vietnam in a strong position ahead of the return fixture. The result has generated significant attention in Southeast Asian football circles, with the final widely covered by regional media outlets.
The second leg is scheduled to take place in Thailand, with the home side optimistic about overturning the deficit, according to detiksport. Thailand will need to win by at least two goals to force extra time or by three to claim the title outright in regulation.
Bolasport.com noted a contrasting narrative for Indonesia, which has struggled with local goalkeepers, while Vietnam's success has been partly attributed to a naturalized goalkeeper. That comparison has fueled debate about squad development strategies across the region.
The return leg will determine the 2026 ASEAN Championship winner. Vietnam currently holds the advantage, but Thailand's home crowd and attacking ambition make the second match a decisive test for Kim Sang Sik's defensive claims.
