Vietnam U23's attack: A fierce race for the Asian Championship Finals.

Following their resounding successes in 2025, the Vietnam U23 team is heading towards the 2026 AFC U23 Championship in Saudi Arabia with a confident demeanor. However, the return of Bui Vi Hao is making the competition for starting spots in the attack more intense and dramatic than ever.

A rigorous selection process in the 3-4-3 formation.

Under coach Kim Sang-sik's reign, the 3-4-3 tactical formation became the guiding principle for successes such as winning the U23 Southeast Asian Championship and the SEA Games 33 gold medal. With this system, the attacking line is always the area that receives the greatest expectations but is also the area with the harshest competition for players.

According to current statistics, the list of players who could fill positions in the Vietnam U23 attack includes up to 10 players. These names include: Le Van Thuan, Nguyen Cong Phuong, Le Viktor, Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Ngoc My, Nguyen Quoc Viet, Nguyen Thanh Nhan, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Nguyen Le Phat, and notably, the return of Bui Vi Hao.

Among these, the group of players considered "safe" includes Dinh Bac, Van Khang, Thanh Nhan, and Van Thuan. These are key players who have honed their skills through many major tournaments, maintaining stable ball control and understanding the philosophy of the South Korean strategist. Conversely, players like Viktor Le and Quoc Viet are still striving to rediscover their killer instinct, while young talents like Cong Phuong, Ngoc My, and Le Phat must fight even harder to secure a place on the final roster.

The Bui Vi Hao variable and the pressing problem.

The return of Bui Vi Hao after injury is considered the biggest variable in the squad. The striker, who plays for Becamex Ho Chi Minh City, is expected to be a dangerous attacking force on the wing, as well as a persistent pressing machine in Coach Kim's system.

Although his form hasn't reached its peak since his injury, his practical experience in the V-League is a major plus, making Vi Hao a strong contender for any starting spot. If he regains his peak form, he will provide the Vietnam U23 attack with formidable firepower in the continental tournament.

Prioritize versatility and battlefield experience.

Coach Kim Sang-sik particularly prioritizes players with the ability to move flexibly and constantly switch positions. At the 33rd SEA Games, fans witnessed Le Van Thuan – a winger – frequently penetrating the penalty area to head the ball like a true center forward. Meanwhile, Dinh Bac was ready to drift to the wing to create chances, while Van Khang and Thanh Nhan constantly switched wings to create breakthroughs.

In a major arena like Asia, international experience is crucial. Players like Van Khang, Dinh Bac, and Vi Hao hold a significant advantage thanks to the experience honed through numerous major tournaments.

Dress rehearsal in Qatar

Besides strengthening the attack, coach Kim Sang-sik also reinforced the defense by recalling center-back Le Van Ha (Hanoi FC). With a height of 1.84 m, Van Ha is expected to solve the problem of defending against aerial balls – a common weakness for Vietnamese national teams when competing at the continental level.

Before officially departing for Saudi Arabia, the friendly match against Syria U23 in Qatar will be the final dress rehearsal. With each team only allowed to register 23 players, at least two players will have to leave the squad next week. The match against the West Asian opponent is not only a high-stakes test of their skills but also the last chance for the players to prove their mettle before the official squad list is finalized.