Kim Sang-sik Targets World Cup for Vietnam

South Korean coach Kim Sang-sik stated on Friday, August 28, 2026, that his ultimate goal is to take the Vietnam men's national football team to the FIFA World Cup for the first time. He made the remarks in a Zoom interview with South Korean media, two days after Vietnam secured its second consecutive ASEAN Hyundai Cup title.

Vietnam defeated Thailand in the two-legged final with an aggregate score of 4-2. The sequence included a 2-0 away win in Bangkok on Saturday and a 2-2 home draw in Hanoi on Wednesday.

Coaching Success and Philosophy

Kim expressed gratitude for the victory, thanking his players for their trust over the past two months. He credited the support of Vietnamese fans who filled stadiums for the team's success. Under his leadership, which also includes the U-23 side, Vietnam won the ASEAN U-23 Championship and Southeast Asian Games gold in 2025. The senior team's current unbeaten run stands at a national record of 26 matches, comprising 22 wins and four draws. You can review the team's recent form in the fixtures and stats sections.

When asked about his methods, Kim denied having a secret recipe. He emphasized being observant of players' physical conditions and their ability to adapt to his tactics. "Football is constantly evolving, and I think I have been successful because I have been able to adjust quickly to constant changes," Kim said. He aims to give players clear direction, noting they have been receptive and trusting.

Cultural Impact and Future Goals

The coach said he was moved to see Vietnamese fans waving the South Korean flag, the Taegeukgi, after the ASEAN title win. He also thanked his predecessor, fellow South Korean Park Hang-seo, for paving the way. Kim noted that football serves as a positive topic between the many South Korean companies in Vietnam and their local counterparts, a fact that makes him proud.

Kim's primary ambition is a World Cup qualification. He revealed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed a desire to see Vietnam at a World Cup during the ASEAN Hyundai Cup ceremony. "I want to develop Vietnam into a team that can qualify for the World Cup," Kim stated, adding his personal wish to compete against world-class coaches on that stage.

Next Challenge: The Asian Cup

The next major tournament for Vietnam is the AFC Asian Cup in January 2027 in Saudi Arabia. They have been drawn in Group E alongside Kim's native South Korea. Kim vowed to prepare thoroughly for every opponent, including South Korea. He expressed disappointment over South Korea's poor performance at the 2026 World Cup and hope for their improvement at the Asian Cup. Fans can follow the group's progress in the standings once the tournament begins.

The source for this report is an interview published by Yonhap News Agency on August 28, 2026.