Vietnam shock hosts Indonesia to reach 2026 SEA V.Cup leg two final

The 3-1 victory marked a remarkable turnaround for Vietnam, who suffered a straight-set defeat to Indonesia just a week ago during the tournament's opening leg in the Philippines.

Indonesia also entered the semifinal as the favorite, backed by home support in Jakarta.

Vietnam's path to the semifinal became more challenging after a loss to Thailand in the group stage left them second in Group B, setting up a clash against the tournament hosts.

Indonesia edged a tightly contested opening set 25-22, with both teams locked in a fierce battle until the closing stages.

However, Vietnam quickly responded in the second set with a dominant display at the net.

Their well-organized blocking repeatedly frustrated Indonesia's attackers, allowing Vietnam to build an early lead before leveling the match with a 25-22 win.

Vietnam carried that momentum into the third set, where Indonesia struggled to keep pace.

As the deficit widened, the Indonesian coaching staff appeared to conserve energy for the following set, and the hosts eventually surrendered the frame 25-19.

Any hopes of a home comeback disappeared in the fourth set as Vietnam continued to dominate.

Their imposing blocking and the powerful attacking performance of Ngoc Thuan propelled the visitors to a commanding 19-12 advantage, stunning the home crowd.

Although Indonesia attempted a late rally, Vietnam maintained control to seal the set 25-18 and complete a memorable 3-1 victory.

The win sends Vietnam into the SEA V.Cup leg-two final and keeps alive the country's hopes of capturing its first-ever title in the tournament's history.

The SEA V.Cup is now in its fourth year, with eight legs having been held in total.

Thailand and Indonesia have each claimed three championships, while Cambodia has stunned the region by defeating Indonesia in the first leg final to lift its maiden crown.

Vietnam's best SEA V.Cup finishes remain runner-up results in the second legs of the 2023 and 2025 editions.

By reaching this year's final, the team has at least matched last season's achievement while earning another opportunity to make history.

Vietnam will face regional powerhouse Thailand in the championship match on Sunday.