Vietnam U22: Optimal lineup to compete for gold at SEA Games 33

Coach Kim Sang Sik finalized the list of 23 Vietnamese U22 players for the men's football event at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, after evaluating their form, physical condition, and tactical readiness for 2025. Based on these criteria, the optimal lineup for the gold medal race features an energetic midfield, speedy wingers, and a true "number 9" striker.

Suggested starting lineup

• Goalkeeper: Tran Trung Kien
• Center backs: Nhat Minh - Hieu Minh - Ly Duc
• Full-backs: Phi Hoang - Anh Quan
• Central midfielders: Van Khang - Xuan Bac
• Forwards: Thanh Nhàn - Quốc Việt - Đình Bắc

Wooden frame: reassurance from healthy competition

The top spot is a fascinating contest between Tran Trung Kien and Cao Van Binh. Trung Kien performed well in the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship and the 2026 Asian U23 Championship qualifiers, while Cao Van Binh showed outstanding form at the 2025 Panda Cup. Both play regularly in the V-League, giving coach Kim Sang Sik confidence in his selection. With his greater height and experience, Trung Kien is more likely to be preferred.

The three-center-back system: cohesion and character.

The trio of Nhật Minh, Hiểu Minh, and Lý Đức are almost the default choice due to their chemistry after many major tournaments over the past year. Hiểu Minh stands out with his height and aerial ability, having made his debut for the Vietnamese national team in October. It's worth noting that Lý Đức has had few opportunities to play in the V-League since moving to CAHN, but the stability of the entire defensive line remains a crucial foundation.

Wings of Energy: Speed, Depth, and Rotation Options

Phi Hoang and Anh Quan possess good physical fitness and speed, and contribute significantly to the attack. Phi Hoang tends to penetrate the penalty area to take shots, while Anh Quan excels with his crosses. In situations requiring ball control and increased attacking opportunities from the left wing, coach Kim Sang Sik could move Khuat Van Khang down to replace Phi Hoang – left back being a familiar position for Khang Khuat in the Vietnamese national team.

Midfield: Van Khang - Xuan Bac compensate for each other's shortcomings.

Van Truong's anterior cruciate ligament injury forced a creative solution by moving Van Khang to central midfield. His physical fitness allows him to take on the role of a shuttle, dictating the tempo of the game. Alongside him, Xuan Bac is maintaining his consistency at PVF CAND, responsible for regulating and distributing the ball.

Thai Son could be a suitable alternative when needed, adding options to the midline rhythm and flexibility in role switching.

Attack: an opportunity for Quoc Viet to prove himself.

With Bui Vi Hao dropped from the squad, Quoc Viet was given the opportunity to play as the striker. Despite being dubbed the "king of youth tournaments," he was waiting for a major competition to break through. Therefore, the SEA Games 33 was the perfect time for the Ninh Binh striker to prove his goal-scoring ability.

Wingers Thanh Nhàn and Đình Bắc regularly feature in the Vietnamese national team and are capable of creating breakthroughs. This attacking trio can flexibly switch positions, opening up many avenues to approach the penalty area.

Tactical framework and impact

Overall, the structure with three central defenders, two tenacious wingbacks, and a complementary midfield axis helps the Vietnam U22 team balance defensive security with attacking pressure. Adjustments such as moving Khuất Văn Khang to the left wing or rotating Thái Sơn in midfield allow coach Kim Sang Sik to adapt to different match scenarios.

The team held a training session in Bangkok, preparing for their opening match against U22 Laos. The stability in the personnel system, along with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, promises to provide a solid foundation for U22 Vietnam to pursue their highest goals at the SEA Games 33.