Opening of the AFC/VFF 'A' Coaching Certificate Course 2026

The 2026 AFC/VFF 'A' Coaching Certificate Course was officially launched in Ho Chi Minh City, gathering 24 participants.

On the morning of July 1st, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Football Federation, held the opening ceremony for the first phase of the AFC/VFF 'A' Coaching Certificate Course at the headquarters of the Ho Chi Minh City Football Federation. The program runs from July 1st to 14th, bringing together 24 trainees who passed the entrance selection exam organized in both the Northern and Southern regions. This training course is considered a key initiative in the strategy to enhance the quality of Vietnam's coaching workforce.

Attending the opening ceremony were representatives from VFF, the Ho Chi Minh City Football Federation, and experienced instructors including VFF Technical Director Koshida Takeshi and Coach Le Huynh Duc. Continuing the effective collaboration between the two organizations over recent years, this year's course is held with modern facilities, including a new theoretical classroom and an 11-a-side artificial turf field, enabling trainees to flexibly combine classroom learning with on-field practice.

Speaking at the ceremony, VFF Technical Director Koshida Takeshi noted that this is the only 'A' certificate course organized in 2026 and has higher professional requirements compared to the B and C certificate programs. According to him, the course aims not only to award certificates but also to train a team of coaches capable of leading teams and contributing to the long-term development of Vietnamese football. For the first time, VFF also organized an entrance exam, selecting the best 24 trainees out of 33 registered applicants.

In addition, Coach Le Huynh Duc expressed his joy at returning to teaching and working alongside many colleagues currently active at clubs across the country. The former national team player stated that the program will focus on exchanging ideas, discussions, and handling real-life situations rather than just conveying theory. According to him, every issue in football has multiple approaches, and sharing experiences will help trainees improve their coaching thinking and refine their expertise.

This year's course features many experienced coaches such as Doan Thi Kim Chi, Chau Tri Cuong, Nguyen Quang Hai, along with several coaches working at professional clubs. After completing phase one, trainees will submit their review reports and finish practical content before moving to phase two. Beyond training a coaching workforce that meets AFC/VFF standards, the program also aims to build a high-quality pool of Vietnamese instructors, contributing to a sustainable foundation for the future development of the country's football.