Coach Kim Sang Sik is set to surprise against Nepal

13/10/2025 06:46:00 GoalGuru

The 3-1 victory against Nepal on October 9th at Gò Đậu Stadium earned Vietnam the full 3 points but left many points to reflect on. Still, Coach Kim Sang Sik may surprise the opponent and help Vietnam present a more convincing performance at Thống Nhất Stadium on October 14th.

In the first leg at Gò Đậu, Coach Kim Sang Sik was very cautious facing an opponent he had limited data on. Indeed, Nepal surprised Vietnam with a tight, calculated defensive style.

The visitors’ equalizing goal against Văn Lâm was a rare opportunity but precisely targeted Vietnam’s current biggest weakness. The defense, with declining central defenders, is something Coach Kim Sang Sik might need to change in the next match.

Coach Kim Sang Sik was reluctant to field many young U23 players against Nepal in the first leg, preferring experienced senior players. He only used Đình Bắc and Thanh Nhàn in the second half to press Nepal when the situation was favorable due to the opponent’s red card. At least, the Korean coach’s team has understood Nepal’s strength clearly and will play more aggressively at home in the upcoming match.

Coach Kim Sang Sik promises tactical adjustments aiming for a more convincing victory after relieving the pressure of securing 3 points previously. Vietnamese players might be more excited, especially those who had not played or had limited minutes in the previous match.

Currently, Nepal also shows significant shortcomings in training and competition. Coach Matt Ross admitted his team only had two training sessions on quality natural grass fields in Vietnam before the first leg. Conditions in Nepal are very poor, greatly impacting their national team.

Nepal players have good stamina but cannot maintain it throughout the entire match. Nepal compensates by playing focused defense to reduce mistakes. However, Vietnam’s more balanced lineup can take turns penetrating Nepal’s goal. Coach Kim Sang Sik still has many ways to surprise Coach Matt Ross’s team.

Tiến Linh is just one goal away from reaching Huỳnh Đức’s record for the Vietnam national team. Photo: Tuấn Phạm

The Korean coach is very skillful in using substitutes, as clearly shown in the first leg. Two defenders who shined in the recent match, Xuân Mạnh and Văn Vĩ, helped relieve pressure for the home team. Coach Kim Sang Sik still has many players who can change the match’s outcome. For example, forwards Thanh Nhàn and Đình Bắc were introduced in the previous match to gain rhythm and are ready to explode in the second leg.

Vietnam will likely shuffle personnel, making it harder for Nepal to predict. Players like Hiểu Minh and Nhật Minh might be tested in defense as Bùi Tiến Dũng and Duy Mạnh seem to be struggling with form. Xuân Bắc must be ready since Hoàng Đức needs individual training after the first leg. Attackers Đình Bắc and Thanh Nhàn will almost certainly get more chances.

Văn Khang and Phi Hoàng could also be options in tight game situations. The mix of Tiến Linh’s experience with the youth, speed, and ambition of new players promises a dynamic attack line.

Tiến Linh is also a key focus, only one goal behind Lê Huỳnh Đức in the list of Vietnam’s all-time top scorers. His strong form and motivation make the Công an TP.HCM striker determined to reach this target.

Moreover, Nepal losing key player Limbu due to a red card will significantly reduce their attacking power. This opens an opportunity for Vietnam’s defense to push forward, apply pressure, and control the match better.

However, the most important thing Vietnam must show is not just victory but also fighting spirit at Thống Nhất Stadium. This venue is expected to become the new "fortress" in the post-Park Hang Seo era.

In a recent training session, Jason Quang Vinh stated: "We played well but need to be more aggressive in defensive transitions. When losing the ball, the entire team must press harder to regain control as quickly as possible." This indicates the coaching staff has learned from the first leg and is working hard for a more convincing second leg.

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