Vietnam National Team: Lingering Concerns Remain

Lack of Effectiveness in Attack

Even though Nepal was considered a weaker opponent and played at home, Vietnam faced difficulties in two consecutive matches. The most satisfying and crucial aspect was certainly the results. The wins, although not as dominant as hoped, secured full points and strengthened Vietnam’s position in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

In both 2027 Asian Cup qualifying matches against Nepal, Vietnam performed reasonably well. However, the ability of coach Kim Sang-sik’s players to capitalize on chances was problematic.

In the first match, Vietnam was rated far superior to Nepal in terms of skills, international experience, and even had a numerical advantage for an entire half, yet they only managed a hard-fought 3-1 victory. Facing a Nepalese side that set up a dense defensive formation, Kim Sang-sik’s players struggled immensely to break through.

In the return match, Vietnam aimed to score more goals, but poor pitch conditions hampered their attacking play. The game left many regrets as the ball hit the posts and crossbar three times from shots by Tiến Linh, Thanh Nhàn, and Đình Bắc. Had even one of those gone in, the match might have been much easier for Vietnam.

Although luck was not on their side, it is clear that Vietnam’s finishing against Nepal was very poor. Kim Sang-sik’s players came close to scoring but ended up shooting wildly off target from open positions and one-on-ones…

Fairly speaking, Vietnam dominated the opponent more comfortably and created more chances. With some fortune, scoring multiple goals would not have been difficult for the Vietnamese players.

The finishing problem is not new for Vietnam. Their forwards repeatedly missed clear opportunities, nearly putting the team in a tough spot. Late in the second half at Thống Nhất Stadium, Nepal had at least two chances to equalize. Had their strikers been more precise, Vietnam’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup would have been effectively ended.

In reality, the wins over Nepal only helped Vietnam achieve the immediate goal of securing full points, while the style of play still requires significant improvement. Vietnam will make changes to strengthen the team before facing Malaysia at home in March 2026 — a potentially decisive match for advancing in the group.

The Mark of Young Talents

Beyond the victories, one positive takeaway from the rematch with Nepal was coach Kim Sang-sik’s boldness. Compared to the first leg, the Korean coach confidently gave more opportunities to several U23 players by fielding nearly a full lineup including Trung Kiên, Hiểu Minh, Thanh Nhàn, Văn Khang, and Đình Bắc…

Kim Sang-sik started three U23 Vietnamese players: goalkeeper Trung Kiên, defender Hiểu Minh, and forward Thanh Nhàn. Considering his usual cautious selection habits, this lineup reflects the coach’s special trust in his young players.

With Đình Bắc and Khuất Văn Khang also coming off the bench, Kim Sang-sik utilized five of the eight U23 players across the two matches against Nepal.

It can be said that all five U23 players performed well. Hiểu Minh and Trung Kiên helped keep a clean sheet and contributed to building play, while Thanh Nhàn, Đình Bắc, and Văn Khang brought energy, speed, and unpredictability. These national team matches offer valuable experience for these young players ahead of important tournaments like this year’s SEA Games.

Under coach Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam is gradually shaping a more controlled style of play. Although finishing remains lacking, the players’ fighting spirit and discipline have made a clear impression. Fans hope that with proper adjustments, Vietnam will make steady progress in the near future.