Vietnam National Team: Big Win but Still Concerned

10/10/2025 06:45:00 FieldFrenzy

In a match predicted to be not too challenging against Nepal, ranked 176th by FIFA, the Vietnam team had to endure over 60 intense minutes to claim full 3 points. This game demonstrated that coach Kim Sang Sik still has a lot to work on to enhance team synergy and maximize his players' potential.

Coach Kim Sang Sik surprised fans by not deploying any young center-backs from the U23 squad, opting instead for the experienced trio: Duy Mạnh, Xuân Mạnh, and the recently recovered Bùi Tiến Dũng. In goal, Đặng Văn Lâm was selected over younger options like Trung Kiên or Văn Việt.

In midfield, Thành Long replaced Quang Hải to pair with Hoàng Đức in maintaining the midfield rhythm. Up front, Hai Long, despite his poor club form, was trusted by coach Kim Sang Sik as a "lucky charm" for the national team. Unfortunately, Hai Long failed to make a significant impact except for causing an opponent's red card late in the first half.

The match began just as fans expected. Within 10 minutes, Vietnam scored the opening goal following a precise combination on the right wing. Tiến Anh delivered a highly accurate cross, allowing Tiến Linh to control the ball cleanly and then shoot decisively, beating veteran goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong. This goal not only gave Vietnam the lead but also strongly affirmed Tiến Linh's comeback after two consecutive scoreless Asian Cup qualifying matches.

The Ho Chi Minh City Police forward continued to impress by causing Nepal defender Laken Limbu to receive a red card in first-half stoppage time after a skillful backheel pass that created an opportunity for Hai Long to break free. However, earlier, Vietnam’s defense had a scare when Sanish Shrestha headed in an equalizer from a set piece in the 17th minute.

At the start of the second half, coach Kim Sang Sik made a clear adjustment by substituting Bùi Tiến Dũng for Văn Vĩ to strengthen wing attacks. Alongside that, other important personnel changes such as Thanh Nhàn and Gia Hưng (replacing Tuấn Hải and Hai Long) brought freshness to the attacking front.

Although Vietnam won 3-1 against Nepal, their style of play was still not fully convincing. Photo: Tuấn Phạm

After numerous attacking attempts, the second goal finally arrived in the 67th minute. From a Tiến Anh corner kick, Nepal’s veteran goalkeeper mishandled the ball, and Xuân Mạnh seized the chance to put Vietnam ahead 2-1.

Just 5 minutes later, substitute Văn Vĩ scored with a simple tap-in. The score of 3-1 was set and remained until the end of the match.

The issue for Vietnam was an unconvincing style of play in this match. The team encountered many coordination problems, and Nepal’s stubborn defensive tactics caused confusion for coach Kim Sang Sik’s players.

Nepal was disadvantaged playing in Vietnam but clearly showed great resilience under coach Matt Ross. Vietnam performed well in the first half over 30 minutes before hitting a wall against their opponent. In the second half, with a numerical advantage, the home team finally converted their superiority into goals.

Despite not playing well, coach Kim Sang Sik has individuals in good form. Not only did Tiến Linh score the opener, but he also demonstrated his role as the attack leader. He has scored 26 goals for Vietnam, just one shy of legend Lê Huỳnh Đức. Tiến Linh can definitely surpass this milestone this year.

Hoàng Đức replacing Quang Hải was a highlight thanks to his technique and passing ability. Văn Vĩ continued to show his scoring touch for Vietnam over the past year. Additionally, Xuân Mạnh’s second goal deserves praise as the player who can play both center-back and right-back actively joined the attack.

This victory gives Vietnam 6 points from 3 matches, temporarily ranking second in Group F. Malaysia continues to lead the group with a perfect 9 points after a 3-0 win over Laos (despite a goalless first half). Nepal remains winless after 3 matches and is almost out of contention.

Coach Kim Sang Sik certainly cannot be at ease. On October 14, Vietnam will face Nepal again at Thống Nhất Stadium. This is a good chance for Kim Sang Sik to continue experimenting with the lineup, giving U23 players like Đình Bắc, Văn Khang, and Thanh Nhàn starting opportunities and making their own impact.

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