Although Vietnam have already secured qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup finals, their upcoming matches against Bangladesh (friendly) and Malaysia remain significant.

During a meeting on March 23, Vietnam Football Federation President Tran Quoc Tuan emphasised the importance of winning, reinforcing expectations placed on head coach Kim Sang Sik and his squad.

As preparations continue, Vietnam are still not at full strength. A group of players from CAHN Club are expected to join the squad on March 24, slightly affecting the coach’s plans.

The South Korean coach has carefully calculated his personnel strategy to meet the team’s objectives. The friendly against Bangladesh offers an opportunity to experiment, with observers suggesting Kim Sang Sik may test players such as Hoang Hen, as well as returning names like Van Hau and Dinh Trong, alongside young U23 talents including Nhat Minh, Van Khang and Trung Kien.

To gain a comprehensive assessment of the squad, Kim Sang Sik is likely to rotate extensively during the 90 minutes against Bangladesh. This means adjustments in formation, personnel and playing style. Based on these trials, he will select the most in-form and tactically suitable players for the key clash with Malaysia.

If there are no unexpected changes, Vietnam are expected to field their strongest and most optimised line-up in the rematch against Malaysia at Thien Truong Stadium in Ninh Binh. Experienced players such as Dang Van Lam, Duy Manh, Viet Anh, Hoang Duc, Quang Hai, Hai Long, Tuan Hai, Hoang Hen and Xuan Son are all likely to feature in the coach’s plans.

Overall, Kim Sang Sik has a range of quality options at his disposal, and Vietnam are expected to present a refreshed image in the upcoming matches, particularly against Malaysia. A victory would not only serve as redemption but also help improve their FIFA ranking and boost confidence for the journey ahead.

Dai Nam