Southeast Asian media is buzzing over Vietnam's 5-1 victory over Singapore after 20 years.

A post from ASEAN United FC unexpectedly went viral by comparing two matches between Vietnam and Singapore exactly 20 years apart, highlighting a stark difference.

Vietnamese football has gained another noteworthy perspective when ASEAN United FC – with 2.9 million followers – recalled two milestones exactly 20 years apart in encounters with Singapore. The post quickly attracted significant attention, not only due to nostalgic elements but also because of its recognition of the clear progress of the "Golden Star Warriors."

Accordingly, ASEAN United FC wrote: "20 years is the gap between these two scoreboards." In 2004, the Vietnamese national team with players like Quang Huy, Manh Dung, Huy Hoang, Minh Phuong, and Cong Vinh could only draw with Singapore even at Thong Nhat Stadium. However, two decades later, everything has changed markedly. This detail also illustrates the long stride of the Vietnamese team, from a past filled with regrets to a present full of class.

The post continued to emphasize the difference when at the "Viet Tri sanctuary," strikers like Xuan Son and Tien Linh shone, helping the Vietnamese national team secure a 3-1 victory over Singapore, thereby concluding the ASEAN Cup 2024 semifinal with an aggregate score of 5-1. Not just a result, this is also proof of maturity in composure and class during decisive moments.

"Time is gradually affirming that the 'Golden Star Warriors' are steadily rising, confirming Vietnam's position on the regional football map," ASEAN United FC concluded. This assessment reflects the reality that the Vietnamese team not only won, but won convincingly, creating a difference compared to its own past.

The journey to the ASEAN Cup 2024 championship also partly explains that progress. Under coach Kim Sang-sik, the Vietnamese team started with difficulties, struggling to win against the Philippines, then experienced an unstable series, including a loss to Thailand and a draw with India that shook confidence.

Nevertheless, a turning point came from the group stage with a 5-0 victory over Myanmar, featuring a standout performance by Xuan Son, helping the team regain confidence. In the semifinal, Vietnam overcame Singapore with an aggregate score of 5-1 after two matches, before defeating Thailand in a dramatic final, despite personnel losses and immense pressure.

The championship after a 6-year wait is not just a title, but also a confirmation of a journey overcoming doubt. From a team that was held to a draw at home in 2004, the Vietnamese national team now possesses sufficient composure to conclude opponents with convincing victories, exactly as ASEAN United FC perceives that powerful rise.