Hot football news afternoon 29/6: Vietnam National Team faces major challenges

Vietnam National Team gets alerts before ASEAN Championship 2026, MU speeds up transfer activities, and the 2026 World Cup remains a hot topic with many significant updates.

Vietnam National Team confronts major hurdles in the 2026 ASEAN Championship

Just weeks before the 2026 ASEAN Championship kicks off, the Vietnam National Team has received a series of concerning signals from rival competitors. Malaysia reappointed coach Tan Cheng Hoe to lead the team with revenge in mind, while Thailand still boasts quality players like Jude Soonsup-Bell despite missing some players currently active in Europe. Indonesia also maintains its strength with a squad of experienced naturalized players such as Thom Haye, Ivar Jenner, and Shayne Pattynama.

Notably, both coaches Anthony Hudson and John Herdman have publicly set championship goals, indicating their determination to dethrone Kim Sang-sik’s squad. This promises to make Vietnam’s title defense journey extremely difficult.

Becamex TP.HCM appoints Spanish coach

Becamex TP.HCM officially names Gerard Albadalejo Castano as head coach, marking a key step in the team’s rebuilding plan. The Spanish tactician, born in 1983, holds a UEFA Pro license, has led several clubs in his home country, and made headlines when his Lleida Esportiu defeated Real Sociedad in the 2017/18 Copa del Rey. He is also familiar with Vietnamese football, having previously worked in Ninh Bình.

With a modern football philosophy prioritizing ball control and pressing, Coach Gerard is expected to enhance Becamex TP.HCM’s competitiveness, aiming for promotion and a return to the V-League in the upcoming season.

Mainoo sparks controversy in the England squad

England concluded the 2026 World Cup group stage with a win over Panama, but the spotlight was on the fact that Kobbie Mainoo continued to be unused by coach Thomas Tuchel. The Manchester United midfielder sat on the bench for three consecutive matches, while veteran Jordan Henderson was given playing time, sparking strong reactions from fans and British media. Notably, Mainoo had just had a breakout season under Michael Carrick, earning his World Cup spot, and was previously confirmed by Tuchel to play a key role.

As the Three Lions enter the knockout stage, the pressure on the German coach grows if he continues to overlook one of England’s brightest young talents.

2026 World Cup security concerns resurface

The 0-0 draw between Colombia and Portugal at the 2026 World Cup drew attention not only for Cristiano Ronaldo but also for a serious security incident. Two Argentine YouTubers are accused of using expired press credentials to bypass three control layers at Hard Rock Stadium, among 16 people arrested for illegal entry. If convicted, both could face up to five years in prison under new Florida state regulations.

The incident has reignited concerns about security at U.S. stadiums, especially since the match attracted over 64,000 spectators and more than 5 million ticket requests, most to watch Cristiano Ronaldo play.

MU decides to "steal" Tottenham’s target

Manchester United has unexpectedly accelerated the pursuit of Mateus Fernandes, heating up the race with Tottenham Hotspur. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Red Devils have opened formal negotiations with West Ham and are ready to improve personal terms to convince the Portuguese midfielder to join Old Trafford.

Previously, Tottenham was believed to have a major advantage, but MU approached Fernandes early and refused to give up. After nearly completing the Ederson deal, the Old Trafford club continues to prioritize adding another quality midfielder under Michael Carrick. Both MU and Tottenham are now waiting for Fernandes’ final decision before entering decisive negotiations with West Ham.

Highlights of notable football news

Midfielder Đỗ Hùng Dũng has joined the 2026 AFC/VFF C-level coaching course right after the season ended, showing serious preparation for a future coaching career. Domestically, Thái Nguyên is likely to become a new entrant in the 2026/27 First Division with a promising young squad and ambitious plans to recruit foreign and overseas Vietnamese players.

Internationally, South Korea has fallen into crisis after being eliminated in the 2026 World Cup group stage, leading to the departure of coach Hong Myeong-bo and an investigation ordered by President Lee Jae-myung. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines with his limited-edition "Gold Scorpion" boots but had to change them after the first half of the Colombia draw. The transfer market is also heating up as AC Milan pursues Mason Mount, Lewandowski prepares to move to MLS, and Diomande and Tonali become focal points for several European giants.