Building on a solid foundation

As 2026 begins, Vietnamese football has laid out a series of important objectives, reflecting its aspiration to expand its regional stature and strengthen its continental standing. Notably, seven national teams have qualified for Asian finals this year - a figure that highlights both depth and balanced development across the training system.

Beyond the numbers, the outstanding campaign of Vietnam’s U23 team at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship - finishing third overall - stands as a powerful affirmation of both achievement and ambition on the regional stage.

Launching their campaign in the early days of 2026, the men’s futsal team did not fully meet their target in terms of results. However, amid a process of rejuvenation, a quarterfinal exit against defending runners-up Indonesia was considered acceptable.

For the national team, the central mission is to defend the ASEAN Cup title set to take place mid-year. After past successes, pressure is inevitable. Yet it is precisely that pressure which can serve as motivation for head coach Kim Sang Sik and his players to reaffirm their status as regional champions.

Beyond achievements, supporters are also expecting a refreshed image from the 2026 national squad - a blend of youthful energy, experience and important reinforcements from newly naturalized players.

Meanwhile, the women’s national team remains a major source of pride as it looks toward the AFC Women’s Asian Cup finals, aiming to maintain its position among the region’s elite and continue narrowing the gap with continental powerhouses. The women’s team’s success in recent years reflects sound investment and demonstrates the sustainable potential of Vietnamese football when guided by a long-term strategy.

At youth level, regular appearances at Asian finals are no longer viewed as surprises but are gradually becoming the norm. This clearly reflects the efforts of the Vietnam Football Federation in building strong foundations, from youth training and coaching to management and long-term development orientation.

Confidence fueled by a new generation

If goals provide direction, expectations are the flame that sustains fans’ passion. In 2026, the greatest hope for Vietnamese football comes from the strong imprint left by the U23 generation of 2025 - a group that delivered positive emotions through a modern, confident and ambitious style of play.

What U23 Vietnam demonstrated went beyond results. More importantly, it was their fighting spirit, cohesion and ability to adapt under pressure. That performance is seen as a precious psychological boost, reinforcing belief that Vietnamese football is moving in the right direction. As young players mature, they are not only the future but also the present of the national team.

Supporters expect 2026 to witness a seamless blend between the experience of established pillars and the dynamism of the emerging generation. A team no longer dependent on a few individuals, but operating as a collective with depth, resilience and an unyielding desire to win.

For Vietnamese football, 2026 is not merely a year of tournaments. It is a year of belief, anticipation and hope. From today’s clearly defined objectives, fans hope the national game will reap a fulfilling spring, so that each time the ball rolls, emotions rise once more in the hearts of millions.

Duy Nguyen