Vietnam head coach Kim Sang Sik has unveiled the national team’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Malaysia, with several notable changes from the lineup that faced Laos in March.

The clash against Malaysia on June 10 is vital to Vietnam’s qualification hopes. Only a favorable result away from home will keep the door open for Quang Hai and his teammates to reach the tournament’s final stage.

While Malaysia has already assembled for training, Vietnam is scheduled to begin camp on May 26 in Hanoi. However, the team will initially be without several players. Coach Kim Sang Sik and key players Duy Manh, Hai Long, Van Vy, and Hoang Duc will be unavailable early on due to a friendly match against Manchester United in Malaysia on May 28.

The Korean tactician is expected to rely on players who are in top form. Names like Nguyen Filip, Duy Manh, Thanh Chung, Bui Tien Dung, Bui Hoang Viet Anh, Van Vy, Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Hai Long, Van Toan, and Tuan Hai are likely to feature.

However, there could be significant surprises. One major consideration is forward Tien Linh, whose current form at Binh Duong has not impressed. If omitted, it may open the door for Cong Phuong to make a national team return. Coach Kim recently watched Cong Phuong play live for Binh Phuoc in a goalless draw against PVF in the V.League 2, signaling serious consideration.

Among the most attention-grabbing possibilities are the call-ups of two overseas Vietnamese players: Cao Quang Vinh and Viktor Le. Of the two, Quang Vinh - currently with CAHN FC (Hanoi Police) - would only be available after June 3 due to club commitments.

At this point, Coach Kim is believed to have finalized his list. His priority appears to be selecting experienced players who are currently in form, as the critical Malaysia match leaves little room for youth experimentation.

Dai Nam