Vietnam national team confidently heads to South Korea for training camp ahead of the ASEAN Cup

On the morning of July 2nd, Coach Kim Sang Sik and his players departed for a pre-tournament training camp in Incheon, South Korea, scheduled to run through July 14th.

During this period, the team will play three friendly matches against opponents from K.League 3, K.League 2, and K.League 1 to finalize their preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

As planned, while training in South Korea, Vietnam will face three progressively stronger opponents in friendlies to test the squad and refine tactical plans.

Specifically, on July 5th, they will meet Siheung FC, a K.League 3 side. Three days later (July 8th), Kim Sang Sik’s men will take on Yongin FC from K.League 2. The final match is on July 13th against Gangwon FC, a K.League 1 club. This last game is considered the most crucial test before the team returns home.

Apart from players in peak physical condition, those recovering from injuries—such as Đỗ Duy Mạnh, Khuất Văn Khang, and Lê Ngọc Bảo—are also part of this training trip.

Their continued involvement with the team allows the medical staff to closely monitor their rehabilitation, helping them gradually regain form and be ready to return when fit.

According to the schedule, after the training camp ends on July 14th, Vietnam will return to Hanoi to prepare for an international friendly against Myanmar at Thái Nguyên Stadium on July 18th. This will be the final dress rehearsal before they begin their ASEAN Cup 2026 title defense, starting with an away match against Timor Leste on July 24th.

Before departing for South Korea, Coach Kim Sang Sik told reporters: "Since we gathered, we have mainly focused on improving the players' fitness. Once in South Korea, we will dedicate more time to tactical drills to ensure the best preparation for the ASEAN Cup," Kim Sang Sik stated.

Assessing the inclusion of naturalized and Vietnamese-origin players like Nguyễn Tài Lộc and Le Giang Patrik, the South Korean coach described them as quality additions that give the team more personnel options.

"The presence of Tài Lộc and Le Giang Patrik makes the team stronger than in previous gatherings. The key is to build a cohesive unit, develop various player combinations, and choose the best approach for each opponent and each match."

Those still recovering, such as Đỗ Duy Mạnh, Khuất Văn Khang, and Ngọc Bảo, are showing positive signs. Coach Kim Sang Sik hopes they will return to training soon during the South Korea camp.