Bui Vi Hao returns: New hope for Vietnam U23's attack.
Striker Bui Vi Hao makes a comeback after injury, becoming a strategic player for coach Kim Sang-sik in the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Championship campaign.
As the Vietnam U23 team is finalizing its preparations for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, Bui Vi Hao's return is seen as a crucial turning point. After a long absence due to injury, the striker from Binh Duong not only brings joy to fans but also provides coach Kim Sang-sik with a dynamic tactical solution in attack.
The return of the Ballon d'Or winner.
Bui Vi Hao is not an unfamiliar name in the tactical schemes of national teams at all levels. Before Nguyen Dinh Bac emerged as a phenomenon in 2025, Vi Hao was the most highly anticipated player. With his versatile dribbling and finishing abilities, he was honored as the Best Young Player at the 2024 Golden Ball Gala.
Overcoming his injury to be included in this training camp demonstrates the incredible recovery efforts of the striker from An Giang. In a short and demanding tournament like the AFC U23 Asian Championship, Vĩ Hào's top-level playing experience will be an invaluable asset to Vietnam's young squad.
The trump card in coach Kim Sang-sik's tactical plan.
Coach Kim Sang-sik's decision to call up Vi Hao was based on a deep understanding of the player's abilities. Throughout 2024, the striker regularly participated in national team training camps and was part of the team's journey to winning the 2024 AFF Championship. His understanding of the South Korean strategist's philosophy helped Vi Hao easily adapt to the team's overall system.
Wei Hao is not simply a center forward. He possesses a modern skill set with intelligent off-ball movement, the ability to create space, and a willingness to drop deep to link up play. This allows coach Kim Sang-sik to flexibly switch between attacking formations, turning Wei Hao into a "secret weapon" that can surprise top opponents in the continent.
Reduce the pressure on Nguyen Dinh Bac.
Currently, the Vietnam U23 attack boasts many promising players such as Nguyen Quoc Viet, Nguyen Thanh Nhan, and Le Viktor. However, Nguyen Dinh Bac remains the focal point of every attack. The inclusion of Bui Vi Hao would directly share the goal-scoring burden and prevent opponents from completely shutting down a single player.
The combination of Dinh Bac's speed and Vi Hao's positioning promises to create a formidable attacking duo. This is extremely important as opponents at the 2026 U23 Asian Championship have undoubtedly studied Vietnam's U23 team's playing style and will seek ways to neutralize their key strikers.
Preparation schedule in Qatar
The Vietnam U23 team is currently undergoing an important training camp in Qatar. This is a period for the coaching staff to assess the players' form after their time playing for their clubs. According to the plan, the team will travel to Saudi Arabia to participate in the official tournament.
Before their opening match on January 2nd, 2026, the Vietnam U23 team will have a final friendly match against Syria U23. This will be the last chance for Bui Vi Hao to prove he is fully ready to regain his position in the attack and contribute to Vietnam's goal of progressing further in the continental tournament.
