Vietnam National Team unexpectedly finalizes a warm-up opponent ahead of the crucial Malaysia match

The Vietnam National Team is set to face Bangladesh in a friendly at Hang Day Stadium on March 26, considering this as a key preparation step before the decisive Group F match versus Malaysia for qualification to the 2027 Asian Cup.

Vietnam enters the year of the Fire Horse 2026 under great pressure as the race for a place in the 2027 Asian Cup approaches its climax. Ahead of the “final” in Group F against Malaysia on March 31 at Thien Truong Stadium, coach Kim Sang Sik’s squad will have an important rehearsal against Bangladesh – the chosen “sparring partner” during the March FIFA Days.

Currently, Vietnam stands second in Group F with 12 points, trailing Malaysia by 3 points. Given the unresolved 6-point penalty case against their rival, the upcoming rematch carries decisive significance. According to the rules, only the group leader qualifies for the 2027 Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia, so every preparation must be carefully planned.

The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has proactively developed a professional plan, including the friendly match against Bangladesh scheduled for 7:00 PM on March 26 at Hang Day Stadium (Hanoi), which is considered a crucial warm-up. Choosing a stadium with a capacity of around 13,000 to 15,000 seats, reasonable organization costs, and a central location in the capital is deemed suitable for a “preparation” match before the big showdown.

From a technical standpoint, Bangladesh is seen as a manageable opponent, enough for the coaching staff to test the tactical framework. Coach Kim Sang Sik will likely combine key players such as Nguyen Xuan Son, Nguyen Hoang Duc, Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Thanh Chung, Nguyen Quang Vinh with young U23 talents like Nguyen Dinh Bac, Nguyen Thanh Nhan, Nguyen Xuan Bac, and Le Viktor to enhance squad depth.

This match may also mark the anticipated return of defender Doan Van Hau after a long injury recovery period. Additionally, it offers a debut chance for new players who have completed their procedures, such as Patrik Le Giang and Do Hoang Hen, promising to bring fresh competitive energy within the team.

After the trial match in Hanoi, the Vietnam team will travel to Nam Dinh to finalize preparations for the Malaysia encounter. Thus, 2026 begins with intertwined challenges and hopes: securing a ticket to the 2027 Asian Cup and beyond that, aiming to defend the ASEAN Cup title. Before stepping into the decisive match, Bangladesh serves as a necessary test for Vietnam to review their squad, strengthen confidence, and get ready for the big moment.