The starting lineup for the Vietnam U22 vs Laos match has been revealed.
Vietnam U22 finalized their strongest lineup for the opening match of the SEA Games 33 against Laos U22, using a 3-4-3 formation and retaining many key players in the starting XI.
The Vietnam U22 team will enter the SEA Games 33 with their opening match against Laos U22. Due to the format where only the top three teams from each group and the best-performing second-placed team advance to the semi-finals, the team will need to focus intensely from the group stage. Against an opponent considered to be of similar strength, Vietnam U22 will likely field their strongest lineup to aim for their first victory.
According to information from Bangkok, coach Kim Sang Sik is expected to use a 3-4-3 formation. Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien will continue to be the starting goalkeeper after a series of stable matches and extensive international experience.
The three central defenders are Ly Duc on the right, Hieu Minh playing as a sweeper, and Nhat Minh on the left. Ly Duc is strong in tackles, Nhat Minh reads the game well, and Hieu Minh brings calmness to the ball distribution. This trio forms a reliable defensive line in front of the goal.
On the flanks, coach Kim can make personnel adjustments. Instead of starting Phi Hoang and Anh Quan, he positioned Van Khang on the left wing and Minh Phuc on the right wing. Both were tested during the team's lineup review session on the afternoon of December 2nd.
The midfield consists of Thai Son and Xuan Bac. Thai Son is responsible for recovering the ball and applying pressure thanks to his good physical condition. Xuan Bac controls the tempo of the game, distributes the ball, and organizes the team's attacking moves.
In the attacking line, the trio of Dinh Bac, Quoc Viet, and Thanh Nhan are almost certain to start. Quoc Viet will play as the furthest forward, Dinh Bac will support from the left wing, and Thanh Nhan will operate on the right wing. These are players that Coach Kim has used frequently during the preparation phase.
During the final training session on December 2nd at the RBAC stadium, the team tested the same lineup. What was shown during the training session suggests this is almost certainly the starting lineup for the Vietnam U22 team in their opening match of the SEA Games 33.
