KIM SANG-SIK TO DRIVE ASEAN ALL-STARS IN EPIC MATCH AGAINST MANCHESTER UNITED

The ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) is proud to announce that Kim Sang-sik, head coach of the Vietnam national football team, will coach the ASEAN All-Stars in the Maybank Challenge Cup — a historic international friendly against Manchester United on 28 May 2025 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Malaysia.

This match is not just a football battle, but also a symbol of leadership, regional pride and unity through sport.

Kim's leadership has proven to be built on integrity, discipline and vision, most notably in guiding Vietnam to the 2024 Mitsubishi Electric ASEAN Cup title with an unbeaten campaign throughout the tournament.

With this record of excellence and the full confidence of the football community, Kim was chosen as the best candidate to lead the ASEAN All-Stars.

"Being chosen to lead a team from among ASEAN's best players to compete in such a large-scale match is an honour for me," said Kim Sang-sik. "We are not just representing our country, but we are collectively proving to the world the pride, spirit and strength of the entire region."

After 16 years, Manchester United return in an epic battle that is expected to attract tens of thousands of fans of various races and cultures, while also showcasing the growing development of football in the ASEAN region.

One of the main objectives of the match is also to raise funds for regional charities, reflecting the AFF's commitment to making a positive impact off the field.

AFF President Major General Khiev Sameth said, "Coach Kim is a symbol of progress and professionalism. His leadership inspires not only our players, but an entire generation of footballers and fans.

"This match is a moment of regional pride which also proves that football can increase vitality.

"On behalf of the AFF, I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to ProEvents for their efforts in organising this match. Thank you also to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) for their unwavering support and cooperation as the host and an AFF affiliate. Not forgetting Maybank for their brand sponsorship. Their collective contribution is very important in bringing this extraordinary event to life."

The ASEAN All-Stars will feature a selection of the best players from all 12 AFF member associations, reflecting the diversity and collective strength of Southeast Asian football.

With strong support from ProEvents, FAM and main sponsor Maybank, the Maybank Challenge Cup aims to be one of the most meaningful and memorable sporting events of the year.