Singapore head coach Gavin Lee said his side was disappointed not to come away with all three points after holding defending champions Vietnam to a 0-0 draw in Group A of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.
At My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi on July 31, Singapore produced a disciplined defensive display to frustrate Vietnam, limiting the hosts despite sustained pressure. Vietnam hit the crossbar twice but struggled to create clear openings, while Singapore successfully contained striker Nguyen Xuan Son.
Lee acknowledged Vietnam’s quality but said the result reflected his team’s progress.
“This match showed signs of progress. We played well, defended resiliently and created several chances,” he said after the game. “But we aren’t satisfied because we didn’t win. While we’re proud of the performance, we wanted all three points to secure a place in the semi-finals.”
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Singapore coach Gavin Lee at a press conference after his side’s 0-0 draw with Vietnam at the 2026 ASEAN Cup in My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi, on July 31, 2026. Photo by Read/Hieu Luong |
Singapore started brightly before coming under pressure late in the first half as Vietnam began to dominate possession.
The visitors regained control after the break, producing what Lee described as a more complete performance than in their earlier victories over Cambodia (2-1) and Timor-Leste (2-0).
“Vietnam are a very strong side, but most of the dangerous situations they created came from our own mistakes,” the 35-year-old coach said.
“Overall, we kept things under control. The players showed great mental strength, and even in the closing stages we were able to adjust our attacking approach. That reflects our composure and commitment to the game plan.”
Highlights of Vietnam and Singapore 0-0 draw at the 2026 ASEAN Cup.