The Vietnam national soccer team has officially begun preparations for its title defense at the 2026 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Cup. Following the addition of former South Korean national team player Kim Doo-hyun as a coach, the team has also selected several tall players and set-piece specialists to enhance its strength.
According to local media, including VnExpress, the Vietnam team, led by coach Kim Sang-sik, started its training camp in preparation for the AFF Cup, with Kim Doo-hyun joining the coaching staff. Kim, who played 62 matches for the national team, participated in the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. He also played for West Bromwich Albion in England and was named the K League MVP in 2006.
After transitioning to coaching, Kim gained experience with Jeonbuk Hyundai and China’s Chengdu Rongcheng. In 2024, he will take on the role of head coach at Jeonbuk Hyundai, further expanding his on-field experience. On June 23, he conducted the first training session with 28 players called up in Hanoi. Coach Kim has created a balanced roster that includes veterans, young players, and naturalized players active in the V-League, strengthening the team's depth.
The team will train in Hanoi until July 1 before heading to South Korea for a training camp from July 2 to 14. During this period, they will play three friendly matches to assess tactical effectiveness and the players' competitive readiness.
Diverse Free Kick Options
One of Coach Kim's primary focuses in assembling this team is enhancing set-piece strategies. In modern soccer, set pieces are considered a critical factor in determining match outcomes. Particularly in international competitions where defensive organization is stronger, a single free kick or corner can significantly influence the result. Previously, Nguyen Quang Hai and Hoang Duc were the primary free-kick takers for Vietnam. However, with the addition of Phan Tuan Tai and Nguyen Dinh Bac, the options have greatly expanded.
A notable change in this roster is the height of the players. New defender Dinh Quang Khiet stands at 195 cm, making him a standout in the lineup. His rare physical attributes in Southeast Asia are expected to provide an advantage in aerial duels. Additionally, naturalized forwards Suan Sen (186 cm) and Tai Lok (188 cm) will contribute to aerial competition. The defense also features tall players such as Viet Anh (184 cm), Doan Van Hau (186 cm), Thanh Trung (182 cm), and Jui Man (180 cm).
Diversifying Scoring Routes Through Set Pieces
Coach Kim's set-piece strategy aims to go beyond merely scoring headers. By drawing defenders away, tall players can create opportunities for long-range shots during second-ball situations. As opposing defenses become more concentrated in the penalty area, space opens up behind them. This structure allows for various scoring methods, including direct free kicks, headers, second-ball shots, and finishing in front of the goal.
Vietnam plans to refine these set-piece tactics during the training camp in South Korea. As rival teams' defensive organizations continue to improve, Coach Kim views set pieces as a crucial strategy for success. If the new coaching staff, tall players, and those with diverse kicking abilities can work in synergy, Vietnam is expected to enhance its presence as a contender for the AFF Cup title.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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