A test that revealed limitations

The recent FIFA Days window brought encouraging results, with Vietnam defeating Bangladesh in a friendly and Malaysia in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. Beyond the victories, the coaching staff also took the opportunity to experiment with personnel.

However, the trial involving Nguyen Hoang Duc and Nguyen Quang Hai in central midfield did not deliver the expected outcome.

Against Bangladesh, a weaker opponent, both players were given time and space to control the game, orchestrate attacks, and contribute offensively with relative ease.

The situation changed markedly when Vietnam faced Malaysia. In the first half, large gaps frequently appeared in midfield. Malaysia’s most dangerous chances stemmed from exploiting the space behind Hoang Duc and Quang Hai.

Both players are technically gifted, with strong vision and creativity, but neither is a natural defensive midfielder. Being tasked simultaneously with ball recovery and playmaking exposed their limitations.

An unanswered question in midfield

The absence of a true holding midfielder has become increasingly evident. Doan Ngoc Tan, once expected to fill that role, has yet to fully regain peak form following injury, leaving the coaching staff with limited options.

Thanh Long showed promise but struggled to integrate effectively during his second-half appearance against Malaysia, particularly in terms of coordination and connection with teammates.

This highlights a deeper issue: Vietnam lacks a genuine midfield anchor - a player capable of breaking up opposition attacks, shielding the defense, and providing a stable platform for offensive transitions.

Until this problem is resolved, any tactical setup will carry inherent risks, especially against stronger, more organized opponents.

Looking ahead, Vietnam will face teams far more formidable than Laos, Nepal, or even Malaysia in its current state. The inability to identify a reliable defensive midfielder capable of both ball recovery and distribution from deep remains a pressing concern.

For Kim Sang Sik, solving this midfield equation is no longer a matter of experimentation but an urgent necessity. Without a clear answer, Vietnam’s path forward will be anything but straightforward.

Duy Nguyen