Southeast Asian fans collectively respond to the AFF Cup 2026 draw results

The AFF Cup 2026 draw results quickly sparked a strong wave of reactions from Southeast Asian supporters, with many differing opinions about the group featuring Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the championship race.

The AFF Cup 2026 group draw ceremony held in Jakarta has officially set the composition of the two groups for the 16th Southeast Asian football championship.

Accordingly, Vietnam was placed in Group A alongside Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia, and the winner of the play-off between Brunei and Timor Leste. Group B includes Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Laos. As soon as the results were announced, social media across the region immediately heated up with numerous fan comments.

Many neutral fans expressed excitement, considering Group A highly competitive, especially with Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore involved. A Thai account commented:

“Group A truly represents a contest of speed and youth, matches between Vietnam and Indonesia are always highly anticipated”. Meanwhile, a Singaporean supporter said “Facing Vietnam and Indonesia early is tough, but it’s the best way to gauge where we stand”.

On the other hand, reactions from Malaysia were more relieved. Avoiding Vietnam, the defending champion, made many Malaysian fans breathe easier. One Malaysian fan wrote: “Not being in the same group as Vietnam is good news; at least Malaysia has a better chance to advance”. Another opinion stated: “Facing Thailand is still challenging, but it’s easier than having to play Vietnam right from the group stage”.

Vietnamese fans have mixed feelings of confidence and caution. Many comments noted that Group A is not easy, as Indonesia is improving continuously and Singapore remains a tough competitor.

A Vietnamese supporter shared “Defending the championship is never simple; this group forces Vietnam to get into rhythm from the start”. However, there were also optimistic views: “If you want to win, sooner or later you have to face strong opponents; playing in Group A only helps the team get tested”.

Many Southeast Asian fans have started making predictions about the AFF Cup 2026 champion. Most still consider Vietnam and Thailand as the top contenders. A comment from Laos noted:

“Vietnam is the most stable, Thailand has tradition, Indonesia with new coach Herdman is highly anticipated; these are the strong candidates for the title”. However, some believe in surprises: “Malaysia could cause an upset if they make good use of the group stage”.

AFF Cup 2026 will be held from July 24 to August 26, 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the tournament’s founding. With the current draw results and lively fan reactions, the tournament is expected to continue being a major celebration of Southeast Asian football, where passion, debates, and the desire to compete for the crown will be intensified right from the group stage.