Jakarta:Malaysia is set to face Vietnam in the third-place playoff of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, determined to conclude their campaign on a high note after missing out on the final.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, defender Brad Tapp, who debuted internationally for Malaysia during this tournament, expressed the team's disappointment at not reaching the final but emphasized their pride in performance and focus on the upcoming match.

Tapp, 25, with dual Australian-Malaysian nationality, highlighted the importance of the match in proving Malaysia's capability to compete with the region's best teams. Reflecting on their recent 6-0 victory over Singapore, he noted the team's positive mindset and readiness to give their all.

The Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) player explained that Malaysia has prepared strategically for Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia's strongest sides, and plans to leverage their quality players for a strong performance.

Interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe expressed confidence in Malaysia's ability to challenge Vietnam, noting Vietnam's defensive weaknesses in the tournament. He stressed the importance of being clinical in front of goal against any team, including Vietnam.

Malaysia's last victory over Vietnam was in 2014, and they have struggled in subsequent meetings. Their recent encounter in August saw Vietnam eliminate Malaysia from the ASEAN Championship with a 4-0 aggregate victory.

Malaysia reached the playoff by finishing second in Group A, tied on points with Indonesia but trailing on goal difference. Concurrently, Thailand and Indonesia will compete for the title at the same venue.