The opening fixture is scheduled for July 24.

Timor-Leste has been unable to host official international matches at home because its stadium does not yet meet the competition's infrastructure and organizational standards.

In recent years, the national team has regularly staged home matches in either Thailand or Malaysia. For the 2026 ASEAN Cup, FFTL has once again selected Chonburi Stadium as its temporary home venue.

Vietnam building momentum in South Korea

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Vietnam is aiming to successfully defend its ASEAN Cup title. Photo: S.N.

Vietnam is currently holding a training camp in Incheon, South Korea, as head coach Kim Sang Sik finalizes preparations for the regional championship.

The team has already completed two training matches, opening with a convincing 6-0 victory over Siheung FC before defeating Yongin FC, a K League 2 side, 2-1.

The second win proved particularly encouraging, as Vietnam overcame stronger opposition while continuing to refine its tactical approach.

Goals from Hai Long and Nguyen Xuan Son secured the victory over Yongin FC, with Xuan Son's second-half header sealing the result after the Korean club had equalized before halftime.

Kim Sang Sik again rotated two entirely different lineups across the two halves, allowing him to evaluate squad depth, tactical flexibility and player combinations under greater competitive pressure.

The narrow victory also offered valuable insights into Vietnam's defensive organization, transitions and ability to maintain intensity against a higher-quality opponent - key elements as the team prepares to defend its regional crown.

Final preparations before the tournament

Vietnam will play one final training match against Gangwon FC, a K League 1 club, on July 13 before returning home.

The fixture is expected to provide the toughest test of the South Korea training camp and the coaching staff's final opportunity to assess the squad before the tournament.

After returning to Vietnam, Kim Sang Sik's side will complete its preparations with an international friendly against Myanmar at Thai Nguyen Stadium on July 18.

The match against Timor-Leste on July 24 will officially launch Vietnam's campaign to retain the ASEAN Cup title.

Vietnam's road to defending the ASEAN Cup title

24 July – Timor-Leste vs Vietnam 
31 July – Vietnam vs Singapore 
3 August – Indonesia vs Vietnam 
7 August – Vietnam vs Cambodia 

Dai Nam