Ep. 9 - SEA Dreams - Why Hasn't There Been Any Modern Asian Soccer Teams in the World Cup?

In this episode of SEA Dreams, we dive into the world of soccer in Southeast Asia—its growth, challenges, and the elusive dream of making it to the FIFA World Cup. Recently, Vietnam’s victory over Thailand made headlines, marking a significant moment for the region’s soccer scene. But despite moments of brilliance, no Southeast Asian team (other than Indonesia when it was called The Dutch East Indies in 1938) or Asian team has ever qualified for the World Cup.

Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen, An Vo, and Phil Van as they explore the structural, financial, and developmental barriers that have kept the region from reaching soccer’s biggest stage.

From grassroots infrastructure and investment in youth academies to government support and international exposure, we break down the key factors shaping the future of Southeast Asian soccer. What will it take for a team from the region to finally break through?

Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.

An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.

Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.

Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.

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