Vietnam - Nepal: The moment to ‘test the mettle’ of the newcomers

Coach Kim Sang-sik started with a lineup of veteran players rich in international experience. This solid foundation allowed the home team to quickly dominate and outplay the Nepalese players. Vietnam adapted quickly and scored the opening goal as early as the 9th minute. However, instead of continuing to press high and attack aggressively, Kim Sang-sik’s players deliberately slowed down the pace of the game.

Despite having the advantage of playing with one more player from the end of the first half, Vietnam only managed to secure the win thanks to personnel changes in the second half.

Facing an opponent considered a "minnows" in Group F like Nepal, their squad’s lack of depth and standout players forced them to adopt a defensive posture against Vietnam. The central defensive duo of Duy Mạnh and Tiến Dũng are experienced and battle-hardened. Yet, at an age where maintaining peak and consistent form is difficult, these two veterans appeared sluggish in judging situations, marking opponents, or covering for each other tightly. This led to goalkeeper Văn Lâm conceding a goal on his return to the national team after more than a year out.

Injecting youth and enthusiasm in the second half made Vietnam’s play more fluid and lively. Substitutes Xuân Mạnh and Văn Vĩ each scored to secure the victory for Vietnam.

Against an opponent ranked 62 places lower in the FIFA rankings, Vietnam still struggled somewhat in building the play and finding goals. Hoàng Đức and Tiến Linh continued as the main strikers but received limited support from teammates.

In fact, all three goals against Nepal involved contributions from Hoàng Đức and Tiến Linh. However, a lack of tight team shape caused Kim Sang-sik’s players to make less effective decisions during key moments. Statistics show Vietnam took 24 shots but scored only 3 goals, with 2 coming when Nepal was down to 10 men.

After substitutes Văn Vĩ, Thanh Nhàn, Đình Bắc, and Gia Hưng entered the game, Vietnam’s central attacks and wing overlaps sharpened. The agility of these young talents continuously disrupted Nepal’s defense, draining their stamina and causing defensive lapses.

Based on the second half’s performance, Coach Kim Sang-sik has likely assessed each player’s ability and gained valuable experience in player management after the Nepal match.

It must be acknowledged that Vietnam dominated possession and shots on goal. Moreover, scoring three times against a disciplined and well-organized defensive side like Nepal is no easy feat.

One notable point is that unlike his predecessor Philippe Troussier, Kim Sang-sik rarely calls many U23 players up to the senior national team. The few young players promoted are not considered key parts of his strategic plans. In the recent match against Nepal, despite the clear gap in level and class, Kim Sang-sik kept all eight U23 players on the bench, allowing the experienced “elders” to start.

In previous personnel adjustments, Coach Kim Sang-sik has made some “bold” decisions by fielding unfamiliar names. Công Phương’s breakthrough at the U23 Southeast Asian Championship was a signature move that reflected the coach’s innovative approach.

Kim Sang-sik has not yet overhauled the Vietnam national team roster. Most players who have been active over the past year are holdovers from former coaches Park Hang-seo or Philippe Troussier. However, some players like midfielder Nguyễn Hai Long and right winger Trương Tiến Anh have developed significantly under Kim’s guidance. Although previously called up by Philippe Troussier, these 1999 and 2000-born players only made notable progress under Kim’s tenure.

In the upcoming rematch against Nepal at Thống Nhất Stadium (Ho Chi Minh City) on October 14, fans look forward to the Korean coach daring to experiment more with young talents. Players like goalkeeper Trung Kiên, Văn Việt, defenders Nhật Minh, Hiểu Minh, Phi Hoàng, and midfielders Xuân Bắc, Văn Khang are expected to be trusted starters.

Changes in the Vietnam national team at this time are essential. Such adjustments could give young players opportunities to prove themselves, help the team fix weaknesses revealed in the previous match, and foster competition for positions. This will motivate every squad member to strive harder and maintain focus when on the pitch. New talents will also inject energy, enhance competitiveness, and offer more flexible tactical options in future matches.

The second leg between Nepal and Vietnam will take place at 7:30 PM on October 14 at Thống Nhất Stadium.