Vietnam advances to AFF 2026 semifinals as Dinh Bac scores brace

Vietnam secured a place in the semifinals of the 2026 AFF Championship after a 3‑1 victory over Cambodia, finishing top of Group A. Striker Nguyen Dinh Bac netted two goals, bringing his tournament tally to four and tying the competition’s leading scorer record.

Football analysts say the win underscores Vietnam’s growing regional strength ahead of a possible 64‑team World Cup in 2030. Thai veteran Witthaya Laohakul noted Vietnam’s "world‑class training centre," while Portuguese expert Luis Viegas described the country’s academy network as "comprehensive" and a key factor in Southeast Asia’s push for more World Cup slots.