The Vietnamese national team receives a major boost in personnel ahead of the crucial match against Malaysia on March 31st.
With the return of Ho Tan Tai, Doan Van Hau, and new naturalized players, coach Kim Sang Sik now possesses the optimal lineup to achieve the goal of securing 3 points.
The Vietnamese national team is undergoing positive personnel changes ahead of the crucial match against Malaysia on March 31st. This is considered a pivotal game, directly impacting Vietnam's football ambitions in 2026. Coach Kim Sang Sik now has the opportunity to assemble the most experienced and deepest squad since taking office.
The return of key tactical cards.
The most notable highlight of this training camp is the return of right-back Ho Tan Tai. After nearly a year away recovering from a ligament injury, the player, who is under contract with his club, has regained 100% fitness. Tan Tai's appearances in recent friendly matches, with his good ball control, have added much-needed unpredictability and solidity to the right flank of the Vietnamese national team.
In addition, Nguyen Xuan Son has fully recovered and is ready to return to top-level competition. Another positive sign comes from Doan Van Hau, who is expected to reappear in the second phase of the V-League. The presence of these players will not only strengthen the defense but also provide more effective attacking options on the flanks for the red-shirted team.
Squad depth boosted by new naturalized players.
In addition to familiar key players, coach Kim Sang Sik has also welcomed high-quality options from the group of naturalized players. Gustavo (SHB Da Nang) has officially become a domestic player under the name Do Phi Long. Previously, Hendrio (Hanoi FC) also completed the procedures with the Vietnamese name Do Hoang Hen.
Having players with excellent individual skills and modern footballing intelligence like Do Phi Long and Do Hoang Hen makes the Vietnamese national team's midfield more versatile. If they maintain their form in the V-League, this duo could become a "secret weapon" in the March 2026 training camp. Competition for positions is also increasing as Cong Phuong and Minh Vuong are both showing impressive form in domestic leagues.
A morale boost from the FIFA rankings.
Besides celebrating the new personnel, the Vietnamese national team also received good news from the World Football Federation. According to the FIFA rankings released at the end of December, the team climbed 3 places to 107th in the world, and 19th in Asia. This achievement is a huge morale boost, giving the players more confidence in their journey back to the Top 100 in the world.
The crucial match against Malaysia is not only a professional contest but also a test of character for coach Kim Sang Sik. With a fully reinforced and high-quality squad, the Vietnamese national team has all the elements to aim for a favorable result at home.
