Coach Kim Sang Sik makes a bold move by calling up 6 central defenders for the Malaysia match?

Coach Kim Sang Sik is expected to call up 6 central defenders for the Vietnam squad ahead of the decisive battle with Malaysia in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.

Only one match remains, and the standings in group F of the third round of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers are forcing Vietnam’s national team to go all in. On March 31, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s squad will face Malaysia in a decisive showdown. With all statistics favoring the opponent, the personnel decisions, especially in defense, have become the focal point.

Currently, Malaysia leads the group with 5 wins in 5 matches and a +14 goal difference. Vietnam is second with 12 points and a +6 goal difference. Laos (3 points) and Nepal (0 points) have been eliminated, meaning the ticket to the Asian Cup 2027 finals is a direct contest between these two teams. To surpass the “Malayan Tigers,” Vietnam must win by at least 5 goals, a very challenging task.

In this context, the news that Coach Kim Sang Sik might call up as many as 6 central defenders for the upcoming training camp has attracted significant attention. The expected list includes Do Phi Long (SHB Da Nang), Doan Van Hau (CAHN), Bui Hoang Viet Anh (CAHN), Khong Minh Gia Bao (Ho Chi Minh City Police), Nguyen Thanh Chung (Hanoi FC), and Nguyen Nhat Minh (Hai Phong FC). This move is seen as the Korean coach’s strategy to strengthen the “steel shield” to the maximum.

In terms of physical stature, this group of central defenders offers a clear advantage. Do Phi Long is as tall as 1.95 meters, while Doan Van Hau (1.85 m), Bui Hoang Viet Anh (1.84 m), and Nguyen Thanh Chung (1.80 m) all have impressive heights suitable for aerial duels. The other two, Gia Bao and Nhat Minh, both stand at 1.75 m but compensate with agility and excellent maneuverability.

Regarding experience, Phi Long, Van Hau, Viet Anh, and Thanh Chung have all competed in major tournaments and possess strong match temperament. Meanwhile, Gia Bao and Nhat Minh have proven their value at club level and with Vietnam’s U23 team, showing significant potential as future talents.

If this information proves accurate, it will be the deepest concentration of central defenders under Coach Kim Sang Sik’s tenure. With the mission to achieve a big win over Malaysia, a solid defense is not only crucial for protection but also forms the foundation for a comprehensive attacking style. The remaining question: will these 6 central defenders be the tactical “gamble” for the do-or-die match at the end of March?