Vietnam U23 National Team Departs for Training Camp and Friendly Matches in the UAE
This morning (October 7), the Vietnam U23 National Team departed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to undergo a training camp and play a series of international friendly matches. This trip is part of the team’s comprehensive preparation plan toward two key objectives: the 33rd SEA Games scheduled for December and the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Finals.
08/10/2025 15:36:36
In terms of personnel, the team has made two changes from the initial squad due to injuries. Midfielder Đinh Xuân Tiến suffered from a thigh muscle overload, while forward Nguyễn Ngọc Mỹ sustained an adductor muscle injury. Both players will remain in Vietnam for treatment and recovery. The coaching staff has called up Lê Đình Long Vũ (SLNA FC) and Nguyễn Lê Phát (Ninh Bình FC) as replacements.
Before the team’s departure, Acting Head Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh shared: “Vietnam U23 is following the planned roadmap toward the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals. In the coming period, the team will have several training phases to test and fine-tune the squad. For this October camp in particular, Head Coach Kim Sang Sik has provided detailed technical directions. The team needs to focus on improving passing ability, maintaining proper formation spacing, and creating open space behind the defensive line.”
During their training camp in the UAE, the Vietnam U23 team will play two international friendlies against Qatar U23, scheduled for October 9 and October 13. According to Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh, these matches are valuable opportunities for testing and evaluation: “Facing strong opponents like Qatar U23 will be extremely beneficial. These two games will help the coaching staff better assess players’ potential and adaptability, and identify outstanding talents to report to Head Coach Kim Sang Sik in preparation for upcoming training phases.”
Midfielder Nguyễn Văn Trường also shared his thoughts: “In recent times, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has provided the U23 team with opportunities to compete in quality tournaments and international training trips. The whole team is making the best preparations for our two key goals — the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals. We will give our utmost to live up to the expectations of our fans.”
The training camp in the UAE marks an important step in the comprehensive preparation plan designed by VFF for the Vietnam U23 team. It aims to help the young squad continue developing, gain valuable international experience, and move closer to new achievements. The trip is also part of the ongoing football development cooperation program between VFF and the Qatar Football Association, established in 2023.
