Vietnam national team receives bad news ahead of the crucial match against Malaysia

Before the key home game against Malaysia, the Vietnam national team faces significant squad losses, forcing the coaching staff to reconsider their personnel strategy.

The Vietnam team got unfortunate news about their lineup as central defender Nguyễn Hiểu Minh will definitely miss the match against Malaysia on March 31. The 2004-born player suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear during the 2026 U23 Asian Championship semifinal and is expected to be sidelined for 6 to 9 months, ending any hopes of a quick return.

Hiểu Minh’s injury is not only a personnel setback but also heavily impacts coach Kim Sang Sik’s long-term plans. This central defender is considered a standout young talent, having performed steadily in the U23 Asian Championship, consistently starting and contributing importantly both defensively and offensively.

Additionally, Phạm Lý Đức will also be absent in the match against Malaysia due to a suspension carried over from a red card received in the 2026 U23 Asian Championship semifinal. Although a goal by U23 China was disallowed by VAR, Lý Đức’s violent conduct outside the play was independently punished according to the rules.

According to AFC regulations, Lý Đức’s suspension is transferred to the senior national team level because he has aged out of the U23 category after the tournament. This means the central defender will be unavailable for the critical match against Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, directly affecting the national team’s personnel plans.

The match against Malaysia is seen as a turning point that will decide the group’s outcome, essentially acting as a “final.” However, coach Kim Sang Sik faces a big challenge without his strongest squad, especially in defense, which is currently undergoing restructuring.

During his tenure leading the Vietnam national team, the Korean coach has remained committed to a youth development plan. Boldly giving opportunities and relying on many young players is viewed as a long-term approach to building a foundation for the future of Vietnamese football. However, the absence of Hiểu Minh and Lý Đức clearly disrupts this progress somewhat, forcing the coaching staff to make temporary adjustments for the upcoming important match.