Vietnam national football team head coach Kim Sang-sik is executing a multi-stage preparation strategy for the upcoming ASEAN Championship, beginning with a conditioning camp in Hanoi followed by a two-week intensive training program in South Korea. The squad is currently refining its tactical approach through high-level friendlies, with a final 23-man roster to be determined after a match against Myanmar on July 18.
How is Coach Kim Sang-sik structuring the training camp?
The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has organized a tiered roadmap to ensure peak physical condition and tactical cohesion. The process begins with a foundational phase in Hanoi focused on fitness and team chemistry. Following this, the team will relocate to South Korea for a fortnight of intensive training.
According to the team’s itinerary, the South Korea phase is designed to test multiple formations through three high-level friendly matches. This sequence concludes with a final trial match against Myanmar in Thai Nguyen on July 18, which serves as the definitive evaluation for the final squad selection.
Which players are returning and who remains absent?
The squad’s defensive depth improved during the fourth training session with the return of goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang and center-back Bui Hoang Viet Anh. Their presence allows Kim Sang-sik to implement a build-up play strategy from the back, a core component of the coach’s tactical philosophy.
However, the squad is not yet at full strength. Current reports indicate that Le Ngoc Bao and Khuat Van Khang are training in separate, individualized programs to regain fitness. Additionally, Do Duy Manh and Ngo Dang Khoa remain absent from the camp.
What role do young players like Nguyen Nhat Minh play?
Coach Kim Sang-sik is utilizing an open-competition model to fill the starting eleven, providing emerging talents a path to the first team. Defender Nguyen Nhat Minh is among the youth players competing for a spot, citing the call-up as an opportunity to learn from veteran teammates.
Nhat Minh noted that the heavy schedule of the national league has impacted the overall physical condition of the players. Despite this, he stated, “The players summoned by Coach Kim Sang-sik are all of great quality. The absence of some does not significantly affect the quality of training. I simply strive my best and hope to be part of the final team.”
Why does the South Korea training trip matter?
Relocating the team to South Korea provides two distinct advantages: access to superior training facilities and exposure to a faster, more physical style of play. By playing three friendlies against Korean opposition, the technical staff can stress-test the defense and midfield under pressure that is rarely found in domestic competitions.
This approach contrasts with previous cycles where preparation was more localized. By integrating the team into the Korean sporting environment, Kim Sang-sik aims to instill a higher level of tactical discipline and intensity before the tournament begins.
Preparation Timeline and Milestones
| Timeline | Location/Event | Primary Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Until July 1 | Hanoi, Vietnam | Physical fitness and team cohesion |
| Early July | South Korea | Tactical testing and 3 friendly matches |
| July 18 | Myanmar (Thai Nguyen) | Final selection of the 23-man squad |
What happens next for the Golden Star Warriors?
The focus now shifts to the South Korea camp, where the technical staff will decide whether to maintain a conservative defensive line or adopt a more aggressive pressing game. The results of the three friendlies in Korea will dictate the starting lineup for the July 18 match against Myanmar. Once the 23-man roster is locked, the team will enter the final tactical polish phase ahead of the ASEAN Championship.
