However, against a sharp Thailand side, head coach Kim Sang-sik and his players will need a sound tactical approach to preserve their advantage and successfully defend their title.
In the second leg, Thailand will be forced to commit to attack and are likely to push up the pitch in search of an early goal.
Viet Nam therefore need an appropriate tactical response, such as deploying a three-centre-back system while ensuring that the gaps between the lines are kept tight at all times.
Hoang Duc’s role will be crucial. The star midfielder is not only the organiser of Viet Nam’s play but also the link that helps the team move the ball from their own half forward.
The most notable personnel issues concern Quang Hai, Hai Long and Dinh Bac, who made their mark in the first-leg victory, as well as the naturalised strikers who are eager to contribute.
More important, however, is how they are deployed. Quang Hai is well suited to receiving the ball between the lines and exploiting the space behind Thailand’s midfield to initiate counter-attacks.
Hai Long can provide high-intensity movement, pressing ability and runs into the penalty area from deep.
If Thailand push forward, Dinh Bac and Xuan Son’s ability to accelerate and run into spaces behind the defence could make them dangerous attacking outlets.
Viet Nam do not necessarily need to dominate possession, and their ability to organise counter-attacks will be no less important than their defensive work.
Proactive defending, controlling the midfield and waiting for the right moment to exploit spaces are what the home side need to do.
Viet Nam have a strong chance of successfully defending their title.
