Coach Kim Sang Sik is about to unveil the youngest Vietnam national team in history.

The Vietnam national team under Coach Kim Sang Sik is undergoing a phase of generational change. During the October gathering, several young talents could be granted opportunities to participate in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifying matches.

On the afternoon of October 5th, the Vietnam team held their first training session in preparation for two home matches—the first leg in Binh Duong and the second leg at Thong Nhat Stadium (Ho Chi Minh City). Despite midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai missing due to injury, Coach Kim decided not to call up any replacements, keeping the squad at 23 players.

This means all seven U23 players (Tran Trung Kien, Nguyen Hieu Minh, Nguyen Nhat Minh, Nguyen Phi Hoang, Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Xuan Bac, and Nguyen Thanh Nhan) are guaranteed spots in the match roster.

The arrival of young players brings fresh energy to the Vietnam team, which is gradually renewing its squad after several key players have declined in form or suffered injuries. This is seen as a necessary step to prepare for the next phase of Vietnamese football, aiming for a team that balances experience with youth.

However, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s ultimate goal remains victory. Since the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has yet to finalize the penalty decision for Malaysia, Vietnam currently ranks second in Group F and must secure all 6 points against Nepal to maintain their advantage. Therefore, the first leg on October 9th will be an opportunity for Coach Kim to field his strongest lineup, including Van Lam, Duy Manh, Tien Dung, Hoang Duc, Tien Linh, and Tuan Hai, to ensure a win.

If Vietnam wins convincingly, the Korean coach might “open the door” for young talents to play in the second leg on October 14th. At that time, the team could start with one of the youngest lineups in history, featuring 6–7 players aged 22 or under.

Notably, both matches will be held in Vietnam because Nepal’s home stadium does not meet standards. After two rounds, Nepal is at the bottom of the group with two losses, having scored only one goal and conceded four. This is a great chance for Vietnam to assert their strength while giving the U23 generation a platform to begin establishing their place in the national team.