Vietnam's national football team receives good news as football regulations are set to be revised.

The rise in permitted substitutions during friendly fixtures will benefit Vietnam's national side when trialing different formations.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has recently announced a series of important adjustments to the football laws, scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2026. These updates are expected to positively impact international matches, including those involving Vietnam's national team.

During a meeting held in Wales, IFAB emphasized that the goal of these changes is to minimize match interruptions and enhance the quality of play. The new regulations were approved following thorough discussions among members to better align with modern football practices.

The most notable point is the allowance for national teams to make up to 8 substitutions in friendlies within the FIFA-recognized system. Moreover, if both sides reach an agreement before the match, this number can be raised to 11 players per team.

Previously, each international friendly was limited to a maximum of 6 substitutions. If a team made a 7th substitution, the match result would not count toward FIFA ranking points. Therefore, IFAB's new decision is seen as a significant relaxation compared to the old rule.

Expanding the substitution quota gives coaches more room to test formations, provide opportunities to more players, and be more flexible in tactical planning. For Vietnam's national team, this clearly represents a major advantage in preparing for important tournaments after the July 1, 2026 deadline.

In addition, IFAB also adjusted other aspects such as permitting certain personal equipment if not dangerous, clarifying drop-ball situations by referees, and specifying rules on the "double accidental touch" during penalty kicks. Furthermore, regulations regarding throw-in time, goal kicks, substitution time limits, and the scope of VAR intervention will be applied starting from the 2026 World Cup.