Coach John Herdman has faced criticism following the national team's significant loss to Vietnam, but the mistakes he made are not unforgivable. Despite the heavy defeat, it is important to recognize that Herdman is still in the early stages of his tenure.

Vietnam's Dominance

In a commanding performance, Vietnam showcased their prowess by defeating Indonesia 3-0 at Pakansari Stadium in Bogor, West Java. Wing forward Nguyen Hai Long celebrated his goal by pointing to the golden logo of the ASEAN Championship trophy on his jersey, a symbol of Vietnam's status as the defending champions. This victory reinforced their position as the dominant force in Southeast Asia.

Under the guidance of coach Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam executed a well-organized counterattack strategy that proved effective against Indonesia. The team, which has been developing over the past two years, capitalized on Indonesia's mistakes, scoring two goals within the first 14 minutes of the match.

Herdman's Tactical Decisions

In contrast, Herdman has been labeled a scapegoat for the loss, with some critics suggesting he was overly naive in his approach. The coach opted for an open style of play, which left the team vulnerable to Vietnam's counterattacks. After the match, Herdman admitted, "Our performance was not good enough. Tactically, they were better. We gave them the ball and they scored easily."

Indonesia's defensive structure appeared disorganized, with the team struggling to adapt to the pace of the game. The high defensive line employed by Herdman may have contributed to the team's inability to anticipate Vietnam's swift transitions.

A Call for Patience

While the scoreboard reflects a disappointing outcome, it is essential for fans to remain calm. This match was only Herdman's fourth in charge of the national team, and he is in the process of instilling a more offensive playing philosophy. It will take time for players like Rizky Ridho and his teammates to fully adapt to this new style.

In conclusion, while Herdman made tactical errors during the match, it is crucial to view this defeat in the context of his ongoing development as a coach. With patience and time, the national team may yet find success under his leadership.