Vietnam National Team vs Nepal: Coach Kim Sang Sik Revamps the Midfield

06/10/2025 14:12:00 TrophyTracker

The ongoing injury absence of midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải during October’s training camp compels Coach Kim Sang Sik to explore fresh solutions for Vietnam’s midfield ahead of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Nepal.

Nepal, ranked significantly lower (FIFA rank 176 versus Vietnam’s 114), offers an ideal chance for the Korean tactician to renew the squad’s core and enhance team depth.

With Quang Hải unavailable, Hoàng Đức’s importance grows. The Ninh Bình midfielder is almost certain to start, taking on the responsibility of controlling the midfield tempo. This also provides an opportunity for the 1998-born player to reinforce his leadership role within Vietnam’s playing style.

Hoàng Đức’s steady performance this season at Ninh Bình is a vital support. The 27-year-old has started six consecutive matches, scored twice, and helped maintain his team’s top position in the LPBank V-League 2025/26 standings.

Hoàng Đức’s skillful left foot and agility significantly influence the team’s style. His chances of securing full trust from Coach Kim Sang Sik improve with the inclusion of his familiar teammate Đức Chiến.

Đức Chiến, who has a long history playing alongside Hoàng Đức from Thể Công Viettel to Ninh Bình, will support him in ball recovery, duels, and launching attacks from distance. Đức Chiến’s build and fearless approach are highly valued among the defensive midfielders called up this time.

Besides the experienced pair from Ninh Bình, Coach Kim Sang Sik also has promising new talent like Nguyễn Xuân Bắc. The PVF-CAND player is notably favored after helping U23 Vietnam win the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship and qualify for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship finals.

Due to Quang Hải’s absence, Hoàng Đức’s role in Vietnam’s midfield is even more emphasized. Photo: Hoàng Linh

Xuân Bắc’s creativity and competitive spirit surpass many peers of his age, which is why he was selected over previously prominent names like Văn Trường and Thái Sơn. If the match against Nepal goes well, Coach Kim Sang Sik might give Xuân Bắc playing time. Before Xuân Bắc, the Korean coach introduced Minh Khoa as a fresh element during the March camp. Xuân Bắc must make the most of this chance to impress Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Vietnam’s midfield is rich in talent, and Coach Kim Sang Sik has many tactical plans ready for practical use. Without Quang Hải, there is no urgent need to add midfielders partly due to this abundance.

Coach Kim Sang Sik has also called up Thành Long, Quang Hải’s teammate at CAHN. The diligent 1996-born midfielder has earned repeated call-ups from both Coach Philippe Troussier and Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Another midfielder capable of playing centrally is Khuất Văn Khang from Thể Công Viettel, who, like Quang Hải, is left-footed. At 22, Văn Khang has more experience than Xuân Bắc, having been on the national team longer. He is a versatile player who can perform well centrally or as a left winger.

The combination of Xuân Bắc and Văn Khang, developed through U23 competitions, promises new and energetic tactical options for the national team’s midfield.

Beyond those mentioned, Coach Kim Sang Sik may consider Hai Long, a player known for scoring under this Korean coach who is expected to make a strong comeback this month. At club level, Hai Long faces form issues, but if allowed freedom in midfield, he could exploit his powerful two-footed shooting.

With only five days of training before hosting Nepal on October 9 at Gò Đậu Stadium, selecting an effective and cohesive central midfield duo is a key challenge for Coach Kim Sang Sik. However, this also offers a chance to test tactical flexibility and squad depth, vital for the team’s future.

Although Quang Hải remains a significant influence on and off the pitch, modern football requires constant change and adaptation. His absence against Nepal might be a “blessing in disguise,” providing Vietnam with the perfect moment to experiment and discover new midfield solutions.

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