Despite speculation, Nguyen Tuan Kiet has not resigned. Instead, he will remain in Vietnam to oversee a separate group of players preparing for the Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Japan in September.

The coaching adjustment follows an earlier decision by the federation to assemble two women's squads for the SEA V Cup and the 2026 VTV Cup. However, after the VTV Cup was postponed, players originally assigned to that tournament continued training for upcoming international competitions, including the Asian Games.

It will be the first time in several years that Nguyen Tuan Kiet has not led Vietnam's women's team at an international event.

Nguyen Ngoc Hoa will be supported by assistant coaches Vu Thi Hoa, Ta Duc Hieu, and strength and conditioning specialist Karl Lim.

Heavy loss to Thailand exposes familiar weaknesses

The coaching change comes less than 24 hours after Vietnam suffered a disappointing 0-3 defeat to Thailand in the deciding match of the first SEA V Cup leg at Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi.

Thailand claimed the title with straight-set victories of 25-18, 25-17 and 25-14, completing an unbeaten campaign. Vietnam finished as runners-up after earlier wins over the Philippines and Indonesia.

Many observers had expected Vietnam to challenge for the championship, especially after defeating Thailand in last year's SEA V Cup. Thailand also competed in Hanoi without several first-team regulars, yet still proved far superior.

Vietnam struggled throughout the match with unstable serve reception, limiting setter options and making the team's attack predictable. Thailand's disciplined blocking and defense repeatedly neutralized Vietnam's offense, while the hosts failed to generate sustained momentum despite strong home support.

The defeat appeared even more disappointing considering Indonesia managed to take one set from Thailand, while the Philippines pushed the regional powerhouse to five sets. Vietnam, by contrast, failed to seriously challenge the visitors in any of the three sets.

Captain Tran Thi Thanh Thuy and her teammates also appeared to struggle psychologically, reinforcing concerns that Thailand continues to hold a significant mental advantage whenever the two Southeast Asian rivals meet.

Squad reshaped ahead of second leg

Vietnam has also made several roster changes before traveling to Thailand.

Middle blockers Le Thuy Linh and Ly Thi Luyen have been called up to replace Le Nhu Anh and Le Thanh Thuy, joining Tran Thi Bich Thuy and Luu Thi Hue to form a four-player middle blocker rotation.

Outside hitters Vi Quynh, Nguyen Uyen, and Tra My have been rested, with Dang Thi Kim Thanh, Doan Thi Xuan, and Dinh Thuy added to the squad.

Setter Dinh Thi Van replaces Yen Nhi.

Vietnam women's squad for the second leg of the 2026 SEA V Cup

Outside hitters: Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, Pham Quynh Huong, Bui Thi Anh Thao, Dinh Thi Thuy

Middle blockers: Tran Thi Bich Thuy, Luu Thi Hue, Ly Thi Luyen, Le Thuy Linh

Opposites: Dang Thi Kim Thanh, Doan Thi Xuan

Setters: Vo Thi Kim Thoa, Dinh Thi Van

Liberos: Nguyen Khanh Dang, Le Thi Yen

Head coach: Nguyen Ngoc Hoa

Tough challenge awaits in Thailand

Vietnam will have only four days to regroup before the second leg begins in Thailand.

The task is expected to become even more difficult as Thailand is set to strengthen its squad by recalling at least four senior players while also enjoying home-court advantage.

Although young outside hitter Pham Quynh Huong is expected to provide additional attacking options, Vietnam's biggest concern remains first-ball reception - a long-standing weakness that proved costly throughout the first leg.

The defeat has also reignited debate over the future direction of Vietnam's women's national team. Some observers have called for broader changes following the men's team's coaching overhaul, although federation officials are expected to make a more comprehensive assessment after the second leg concludes.

For now, Vietnam's immediate challenge is to respond to its disappointing performance in Hanoi and show meaningful improvement against a stronger Thai side on its home court.

Dai Nam