Indonesian media surprised by Vietnam's progress

Indonesian media collectively reported that Vietnam rose 9 places to FIFA rank 99, officially returning to the Top 100 after an impressive two-year absence.

Indonesian media collectively reported after the 3-1 victory over Malaysia in the final Asian Cup 2027 qualifying round, which helped Vietnam officially return to the FIFA Top 100 after a long absence, while also recognizing a strong advance on the world rankings.

This victory, along with the awarded win from the previous match against Malaysia, helped Vietnam rise 9 places, reaching FIFA rank 99, marking the team's return after 2 years away from the group of the world's top 100 teams. According to Indonesian media's assessment, this is also the most impressive ranking increase in the FIFA Matchday March 2026.

Not only Vietnam, Thailand also entered the Top 100, currently at FIFA rank 93, its highest in many decades. Thus, ASEAN now has two representatives in the FIFA Top 100, demonstrating the remarkable progress of regional football.

“Vietnam has shown sustainable development, and Indonesian media also considers this an important milestone,” Indonesia's Sepakbola page shared.

This achievement simultaneously creates a clear gap with regional rivals. Indonesia, once nearly surpassing Vietnam, now must watch the two leading ASEAN representatives advance further. Indonesian media also emphasized that the progress of Vietnam and Thailand will be motivation for other Southeast Asian teams aiming for Asian Cup 2027 and subsequent international tournaments.

Vietnam is becoming a symbol for the advancement of Southeast Asian football, and according to Indonesian media, the national team proves that strategies for player development, international competition, and team spirit can bring the team back to the world's top level.

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