Vietnam 4-0 Myanmar: The Era of 'Crossing Machine' Truong Tien Anh

Winning 4-0 against Myanmar in the last warm-up match ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Cup was more than just a flawless final test for Vietnam; it solidified the importance of right-back Truong Tien Anh, who had a hand in three goals.

Three touches of the ball that led to Vietnam's first three goals against Myanmar showcased the brilliant form of the team's top right-back, now entering the prime of his career under the guidance ofCoach Kim Sang Sik.

At Thai Nguyen Stadium, Tien Anh demonstrated how a skilled winger can make a difference in attack. The 1999-born player became the key to unlocking the opponent's defense.

Truong Tien Anh is doing this better than any other right-back in Vietnamese football, making it impossible for Coach Kim Sang Sik to replace him.

The 4-0 win over Myanmar confirmed the value of the Ninh Binh defender. Three of Vietnam's four goals originated from the 1999-born player's contributions. Accurate crosses and perfectly timed balls into space allowed Xuan Son, Xuan Manh, andHoang Hento find the net.

This is no longer a coincidence but a trademark Tien Anh has built over the past year.

Coach Kim Sang Sik also sent a clear message by letting Truong Tien Anh play the full match in the final friendly before the2026 ASEAN Cup. For a player almost guaranteed a starting spot, many expected Kim to rest him to avoid injury risks.

But the South Korean coach chose the opposite approach. He wanted his player to reach peak form and be fully warmed up before the official tournament. Tien Anh proved his solid fitness to handle constant attacking and defensive duties—providing width in attack while locking down the flank at the back.

Tien Anh possesses speed, endurance, and, most notably, the ability to deliver the ball into the box with high accuracy. That's why fans call him the "crossing machine."

For the national team, 2026 has seen the most complete version of Truong Tien Anh. In the March FIFA Days alone, he recorded three assists in two matches. Against Myanmar, that streak continued with an almost flawless performance.

Tien Anh's outstanding form allowed Coach Kim Sang Sik to confidently move Xuan Manh to right center-back instead of using the Hanoi FC player in his natural position. This decision strengthened Vietnam's defense while maintaining a powerful attacking threat on the right flank.

The chemistry betweenTien Anhand Xuan Manh is becoming one of the most intriguing tactical aspects of the team. Their partnership provides defensive security and offensive efficiency. Compared to the left side, where Van Hau and Nhat Minh were exploited by Myanmar, Tien Anh's right flank not only contributed goals but also left the opponent helpless to break through.

Coach Kim Sang Sik is most satisfied not just with the assists, but also with the fact that Tien Anh fulfills the role of a creative midfielder. The 2026 ASEAN Cup will be the stage where the 27-year-old defender needs to maximize his value.