Coach Kim Sang Sik made history, achieving something even Park Hang Seo could only dream of.

The breathtaking victory against arch-rival U22 Thailand in the SEA Games 33 final not only brought the prestigious gold medal to U22 Vietnam, but also marked an unprecedented historical milestone in regional football.

The moment coach Kim Sang-sik officially completed the great "treble," an achievement that made all of Southeast Asia look at Vietnam in a different light. In football, the "treble" is a concept associated with big clubs in Europe – where a team absolutely dominates both the domestic league and the continental competition in the same season. But coach Kim Sang-sik redefined that concept at the national team level in a more special way. In just one year, he and Vietnamese football successively conquered three peaks: the AFF Cup, the U23 Southeast Asian Championship, and the SEA Games.

Looking at the numbers, the South Korean coach's achievements have truly astonished experts. Since taking office, Kim Sang-sik has boasted a 100% win rate in finals – something even the most renowned coaches in the region have never achieved.

The SEA Games final against Thailand was the clearest evidence of his tactical acumen and composure. When the Vietnam U22 team was pushed into a difficult situation, constantly under pressure from the opponent's technically skilled ball-control style of play, Kim's players still maintained a rare calmness and tenacity.

Instead of being drawn into Thailand's pace, the Vietnam U22 team chose a disciplined, solid style of play, particularly sharp in counter-attacks. The 3-2 victory wasn't simply a moment of individual brilliance, but the result of a smoothly functioning system. From defensive organization and transitions to intelligent personnel changes, everything bore the mark of "the wizard" Kim Sang-sik. He proved that in crucial matches, meticulous preparation and a cool head are the keys to victory.

Southeast Asian football has witnessed golden eras under Kiatisak of Thailand and Park Hang-seo of Vietnam. These are legendary figures who have transformed the region's football landscape. However, even they never achieved a complete treble at all three levels within such a short period as Kim Sang-sik has just accomplished.

It could be said that Park Hang-seo and Troussier laid the crucial foundation for development, but Kim Sang-sik was the one who upgraded and perfected it with his coolness, pragmatism, and maximum efficiency. The AFF Cup, the U23 Southeast Asian Championship, and the SEA Games have made him the first, and so far only, coach to enter the "hall of legends" of regional football as the "king of titles".

The historic treble is not just Kim Sang-sik's story, but also an affirmation of the right path for Vietnamese football. It is the result of a generation of talented young players, led by a coach who knows how to turn pressure into motivation, and challenges into diamonds. After the brilliant final night in Bangkok, it can be affirmed that the "era" of Kim Sang-sik has officially been established.

Vietnam U22 team receives a "bonus of 2.5 billion VND", VFF sends a message after winning gold at SEA Games 33. Thanh Yên10:14:38 19/12/2025The Vietnam U22 team staged a spectacular comeback, defeating Thailand U22 3-2 to win the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games. Immediately after the victory, the team received a bonus of 1 billion VND from the VFF and is expected to return to Vietnam on December 19th.