OFFICIAL: Vietnam shares group with China in 2026 World Cup

Vietnam's Sepak Takraw team is placed in Group C alongside Myanmar, China, and Indonesia in the World Cup.

The International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) recently conducted the draw for the 2026 World Cup groups, which will take place in Malaysia in May. The draw results are considered favorable for Vietnam's Sepak Takraw team, as they are placed in groups that are not overly challenging, especially in the regu event—the most popular and exciting competition in Sepak Takraw.

In the regu event, Vietnam is in Group C with Myanmar, China, and Indonesia. This group is seen as relatively balanced, without the presence of top-tier teams like Thailand or Malaysia. Given the current strength of the teams, Vietnam is considered slightly stronger than most opponents in this group and has a good chance to compete for a spot to advance if they maintain stable performance.

Meanwhile, Group A includes host Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore; Group B features Thailand, Iran, and India; and Group D consists of the Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, and Brunei. Compared to other groups, avoiding Thailand in the regu event significantly reduces pressure for Vietnam, as Thailand is consistently the strongest and most accomplished team in world Sepak Takraw.

In the Team Regu event, Vietnam faces a tougher challenge as they are grouped with Thailand and the Philippines. This is undoubtedly a more difficult group because Thailand is always a top contender for the championship in major tournaments. The Philippines is also a formidable opponent with their physically demanding and fast-paced style. The remaining groups are: Malaysia, India, Myanmar in Group B; South Korea, Singapore, Japan in Group C; and Indonesia, China, Brunei in Group D.

After the draw, Malaysia's Sepak Takraw head coach Ahmad Jais Baharun commented that the group distribution is quite balanced, with each group having its own strengths. According to him, no team can afford to be complacent if they aim to advance deep into this year's tournament. The most crucial factors remain consistent performance, sustained physical fitness, and mental resilience throughout the competition.

Vietnam's Sepak Takraw team enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the region's strong contenders. At last year's World Cup held in India, Vietnam's women's team won the world championship in the women's team event for the first time, marking a historic milestone for the country's Sepak Takraw. Additionally, Sepak Takraw has long been a strong sport for Vietnam in major competitions like the SEA Games and ASIAD. According to the schedule, the 2026 Sepak Takraw World Cup will take place from May 16 to 23, promising high expectations for Vietnamese fans.

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