World Cup 'heat' and the competition within the Vietnam national team

While the 2026 World Cup dominates fan interest, it is this summer that truly matters for Vietnamese football. Head coach Kim Sang Sik is discreetly evaluating his players, fostering fierce rivalry across all positions in preparation for the ASEAN Cup 2026 and the larger target of the Asian Cup 2027.

Specifically, Coach Kim Sang Sik is using this time to shape the core for the new cycle. The Korean tactician is not only looking at current form but also assessing each player's adaptability, consistency, and growth potential. As a result, the concept of a guaranteed spot on the team has virtually disappeared.

This becomes even clearer when key CAHN club players like Nguyen Filip or Jason Quang Vinh may remain with their team for the AFC Champions League Elite playoff instead of joining the national squad. Rather than worrying, Coach Kim Sang Sik sees this as a chance to test squad depth and open the door for other talents.

At the goalkeeper position, the competition has never been as balanced as it is now. Dang Van Lam still possesses experience and composure, but Tran Trung Kien is a name that Kim has persistently given opportunities over the past two years, from the U23 to the senior team. If he wants to spring a surprise, Patrik Le Giang also has the ability to break in. Not to mention Nguyen Filip, Van Viet, or Dinh Trieu, who are always ready to return.

The defense is also undergoing a rigorous screening. Thanh Chung, Duy Manh, Xuan Manh, or Viet Anh could be replaced by Ngoc Bao, Nhat Minh, Quang Kiet, or Van Hau. Dinh Trong has not been removed from the long-term plans either. With such a large number of center-backs, some names will inevitably have to make way.

On the flanks, Van Vi and Tuan Tai compete on the left side, while Tien Anh and Xuan Manh vie for the right side.

If the defense is crowded, the midfield is even more intense. Hoang Duc and Thanh Long are nearly pure central midfielders, while Quang Hai and Hoang Hen can play multiple roles. Hai Long, Van Khang, Ngoc My, and Van Do all just finished stable seasons and are fully capable of competing fairly. For Coach Kim Sang Sik, form always matters more than reputation.

The attack is no longer just about Xuan Son. The naturalized striker remains the top choice, but Tai Loc is emerging as a quality option with his physique, ability to hold up the ball, and finishing skills. Dinh Bac is maturing day by day, while at the same age of 26, Gia Hung and Viet Cuong have plenty of desire to prove themselves.

A notable point is that Coach Kim Sang Sik is prioritizing players who can perform in multiple positions. This is a trend in modern football and also a way for the team to increase depth in short tournaments. To earn a place, players must not only play well but also demonstrate their value fits the tactical plan that the Korean coach desires.

In reality, this competition is a positive sign. A strong team cannot be built on predetermined names but must be forged through constant competitive pressure. When every position has a worthy replacement, the quality of training and matches improves. As mentioned, every position on the current team still has good alternatives available from the remaining V-League clubs.

The World Cup may overshadow Vietnamese football in the eyes of fans. But for Coach Kim Sang Sik and the players, this summer is the decisive moment. The winners of today's quiet competition will be the faces representing Vietnamese football at the ASEAN Cup and on the journey toward the 2027 Asian Cup.