Vietnam face the Philippines on 26 September 2026 at 15:30 in Group B of the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung. Vietnam arrive as defending ASEAN Cup champions under coach Kim Sang-sik, fresh from winning the region's premier tournament. The Philippines, managed by Carles Cuadrat, field a squad heavy with European-based talent: eight players from European clubs, two from the United States, and only one domestic player in defender Daisuke Sato. Vietnam's squad retains most of the championship-winning core, though key absences include Doan Van Hau, Dang Van Lam, and Filip Nguyen. Kim Sang-sik has introduced new faces including Adou Leigly Minh and Williams Minh Hoang, both Vietnamese-rooted players making their debut at this level. The Philippines' defense features Paul Tabinas of Dinamo Zagreb, his brother Jefferson Tabinas, Brighton U21 prospect Isaiah Alakieu, and Angelo Bruckner of Bayreuth. In attack, Andre Leipold, Sebastian Rasmussen, and Bjorn Christensen carry the offensive load.
Form and H2H
Vietnam's last ten matches show eight wins and two draws with no defeats, averaging 2.71 goals for and 0.41 against. The Philippines won six of their last ten, drew one, and lost three, averaging 2.61 goals for and 1.27 against. Head-to-head records strongly favor Vietnam. After the Philippines won consecutive matches in 2010 and 2012, Vietnam have dominated with seven wins and one draw across their last eight meetings. Their most recent clash at the 2024 ASEAN Cup ended 1-1. Vietnam's home record in this fixture stands at five wins and one draw across six encounters. The schedule pressure cuts both ways: Vietnam face Thailand on 29 September, while the Philippines play Pakistan on the same date, making this opening match crucial for psychological momentum and group positioning.
Best bet
Vietnam to win. The hosts hold a commanding recent record against the Philippines, have not lost in ten matches, and average nearly three goals per game at home. The Philippines' overseas-based squad offers individual quality and unpredictability, but Vietnam's cohesion as defending champions and their superior form make them the clear favorites. No partner prices are currently available for this match.
Odds to watch
Vietnam's home record and attacking average suggest backing Over 1.5 goals. The Philippines' defense, despite its European pedigree, concedes 1.27 goals per away match on average. Vietnam average 2.71 goals at home. No partner prices are currently available for this match.















