On the morning of October 7, the Vietnam U23 national football team departed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a training camp as part of their preparations for the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup.

Before the team’s departure, two changes were made to the initial squad list. Midfielder Dinh Xuan Tien was ruled out due to a thigh overload injury, while forward Nguyen Ngoc My suffered a groin strain. Both players will remain in Vietnam for recovery and rehabilitation.

Their absence is unfortunate, as both had recently been in strong form. Prior to joining the national camp, Xuan Tien scored a spectacular goal for The Cong Viettel in their 1-1 draw with Ninh Binh in Round 6 of the LPBank V-League 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Ngoc My had been a favorite of head coach Kim Sang Sik due to his work rate and tactical versatility.

To ensure adequate numbers for training and upcoming friendlies, the coaching staff has called up Le Dinh Long Vu (SLNA) and Nguyen Le Phat (Ninh Binh) as replacements.

Acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh shared, “The team is following the planned roadmap toward the 33rd SEA Games and the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026. This camp is one of several focused periods to evaluate and strengthen the squad. For this October session, head coach Kim Sang Sik has given detailed tactical instructions emphasizing ball distribution, team shape, and creating space behind the defensive line.”

During October, while the Vietnam national team faces Nepal in two friendlies, the U23 side will play two international friendlies against Qatar U23 on October 9 and October 13.

Coach Vinh added, “Playing against strong opponents like Qatar U23 is a valuable opportunity. These matches allow the coaching staff to assess players’ potential, adaptability, and performance under pressure. Based on this, we’ll make evaluations and recommendations to head coach Kim Sang Sik to refine the squad for future training camps.”

Dai Nam