In recent tournaments, each team could register just 23 players for the AFF Cup, formerly known as the ASEAN Cup. Despite this restriction, coaches have always called up a larger group during the preparation phase to select the best squad for Vietnam.

Former coach Park Hang Seo, known for his conservative approach, often called up a list of 35-40 players during training camps before finalizing his squad. Similarly, his successor, Philippe Troussier, who led the team for nearly a year, tested around 60 players across various training sessions before narrowing down the roster according to the tournament regulations.

Ahead of the AFF Cup 2024, Coach Kim Sang Sik has two training periods during FIFA Days and two friendly matches against India and Lebanon. These opportunities are crucial for him to refine the team for the region's most significant tournament.

Given his limited time and fewer opportunities to watch V-League matches live, Coach Kim Sang Sik is expected to call up a large number of players to ensure thorough screening and selection.

Additionally, the AFF Cup's schedule coincides with club-level tournaments in Asia and the region. To avoid being short-staffed, the coach needs backup plans and additional players.

Coach Kim Sang Sik is likely to split the call-ups into two significant training sessions in September and October, each involving around 35-40 players. This approach ensures no capable or eager player is overlooked for the national team.

The hope is that through these meticulous selection processes, Coach Kim Sang Sik will build a robust squad capable of clinching the AFF Cup 2024 title.

Duy Nguyen