U22 Vietnam actively training despite incomplete squad
On the afternoon of June 30, the U22 Vietnam continued their training sessions at Ba Ria-Vung Tau Stadium in preparation for the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship. Although the full squad has yet to be assembled, the training atmosphere remains focused and upbeat, with all players showing strong determination and a positive mindset.
01/07/2025 10:11:49
Among the players who recently competed in the 2024/25 National Cup final, only striker Nguyễn Đình Bắc (Cong An Ha Noi) had arrived in Ba Ria-Vung Tau as of June 30. However, he was not yet able to join his teammates on the field for that afternoon’s training session.
This marked the fourth consecutive training day for the Vietnam U22 team as they prepare for the upcoming regional tournament. Under the guidance of head coach Kim Sang Sik, the players have been focusing on building a solid fitness foundation while continuing to refine their playing style and tactical formations.
The Korean coach has also been using this time to clearly convey his tactical expectations, helping the team gradually improve in both defensive organization and attacking transitions.
Speaking to the media ahead of the training session, newcomer Nguyễn Ngọc Mỹ shared:
“Training has been going smoothly. Everything is going according to plan and hasn’t been affected much by the absence of a few players. Recent sessions have mainly focused on building fitness, getting familiar with tactical formations, and adapting to new drills.
I’m also gradually adjusting to the team’s playing style in both attack and defense. For now, the whole team is putting in maximum effort to aim for the best results in the group stage. Each player is trying to quickly adapt to the new environment. As for pressure, I haven’t really thought about it — right now, we’re all just focused on the goal ahead.”
According to the plan, the Vietnam U22 team will play two internal friendly matches against Chinese Taipei U23, who are currently training in Vung Tau, on July 2 and July 4. To support the technical preparation of both coaching staffs, these matches will be held behind closed doors, with no spectators or media coverage permitted.
These games are considered important rehearsals, allowing the coaching staff to assess the squad and evaluate the team’s readiness ahead of their campaign to defend the title at the 2025 AFF U23 Championship.
Following the two friendlies, head coach Kim Sang Sik is expected to make the first cut to the squad, narrowing it down to around 26 players.
