According to the schedule, Vietnam will depart for South Korea on July 2 and spend nearly two weeks training in the city of Incheon before returning home on July 14.

The entire training and match program will take place at the Incheon Munhak Sports Complex, a modern sports facility featuring the 50,000-seat Munhak Stadium - one of Incheon’s most recognizable sporting venues. Located around 30 kilometers from Incheon International Airport, the complex offers convenient travel and logistical conditions for the team.

The coaching staff are expected to bring a delegation of around 40 members, including players, coaches and team officials. Kim Sang Sik believes the training environment in South Korea will help his players achieve the ideal mental and physical condition ahead of the regional tournament.

During the training camp, Vietnam are scheduled to play three friendly matches against local Korean clubs as the coaching staff assess player form, test tactical systems and finalize the squad for ASEAN Cup 2026.

The preparation plan mirrors Vietnam’s approach ahead of ASEAN Cup 2024. Over the past decade, South Korea has become a familiar overseas training destination for Vietnam’s national teams.

At the time, some critics questioned whether preparing in colder weather conditions was suitable for the team. However, Vietnam’s triumph at ASEAN Cup 2024 ultimately silenced those doubts, with Kim Sang Sik’s side winning the championship after two emotional final matches against Thailand.

The Vietnamese coaching staff hope this latest trip will provide a more comprehensive preparation process. Friendly matches against Korean clubs are expected to help Kim Sang Sik closely evaluate individual performances and tactical flexibility.

Notably, the camp could also provide opportunities for several new faces, including recently naturalized players such as Patrick Le Giang and Nguyen Tai Loc.

For Kim Sang Sik, the South Korea trip is about more than fitness and tactical preparation. It is also viewed as a key opportunity to strengthen team chemistry and create fresh motivation during a period of significant squad transition.

Winning the ASEAN Cup was difficult enough. Defending the title may prove even harder. But the South Korean coach is aiming to recreate that winning formula with a new version of Vietnam’s national team - disciplined, modern, physically aggressive and hungry for success.

Dai Nam