Striker Paulo Josue: "Vietnam Team Cannot Overwhelm Malaysia Team"

Malaysia's skipper Paulo Josue stated that the Vietnamese team failed to overpower Malaysia during the opening semifinal match of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

Paulo Josue believes that efficient finishing and small moments made the difference between the two sides at KLFA Stadium.

Despite a 2-0 loss in the first leg, the 37-year-old midfielder praised Malaysia's young squad, particularly their courage in facing a seasoned and well-prepared Vietnamese team.

Vietnam opened the scoring through a flying header from Nguyễn Xuân Son in first-half stoppage time. Their second goal came from an own goal by Faris Danish Asrul in the 86th minute. However, Josue argued the visitors did not truly control the match.

"Vietnam didn't have much possession time, nor did they dominate the game, but they had a few chances and converted them," Josue said after the match.

"We also created good opportunities but couldn't turn them into goals. That was the main difference," Josue added.

With interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe forced to rely on many U23 players due to early injuries, Josue acted as a leader on the pitch. He acknowledged that mistakes are inevitable as young players gain experience.

"We have a very young squad, so there will definitely be some errors. Nothing is ever easy for young players, but they showed incredible bravery by going toe-to-toe with a team like Vietnam," Josue said.

Josue, who has scored 3 goals in the tournament and earned 31 caps for Malaysia, added: "Overall, I'm very proud of their performance."

Looking ahead to the tough return leg at Mỹ Đình Stadium on Wednesday, Josue emphasized that unity and effort will be crucial if Malaysia hopes to stage an unlikely comeback.

"We've proven that if we work hard, stay disciplined, and remain united, we always have a chance. We know the away trip to Hanoi will be difficult, but we still have 90 minutes to face them. Anything can happen," Josue affirmed.