ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026: Champions Vietnam Begin Title Defense Against Timor-Leste

The 30th anniversary of the ASEAN Championship kicks off this Friday as defending champions Vietnam launch their ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 campaign against qualifiers Timor-Leste in Group A in Chonburi.

Led by captain Nguyễn Quang Hải, Kim Sang-sik’s squad aims to break a historic curse. Despite winning the trophy three times, Vietnam has never successfully defended the title. Boosting their chances is the return of Brazil-born striker Nguyễn Xuân Son. Fully recovered from a broken leg suffered in the 2024 final, his clinical prowess remains vital for Vietnam's quest for a fourth regional crown.

However, Timor-Leste poses a genuine threat after a dominant 6-1 aggregate qualifying win over Brunei. Forward Zenivio Gostavo and substitute Oatnasio da Silva will test a resilient Vietnamese defense.

Simultaneously in Group A, Cambodia hosts four-time champions Singapore in Phnom Penh. Cambodian coach Koji Gyotoku hopes forward Sa Ty can secure their first-ever knockout berth. Meanwhile, a resurgent Singapore relies on 35-year-old captain Hariss Harun following their recent 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification.

Six-time runners-up Indonesia, managed by John Herdman, complete Group A and will begin their tournament journey against Cambodia on July 27.