The Vietnam national team concludes its preparation for the ASEAN Cup 2026 with a friendly match against Myanmar at Thai Nguyen Stadium at 19h on Saturday, 18/7. This match serves as the final opportunity for coach Kim Sang Sik to review his squad after nearly four weeks of training, which included a camp in South Korea, before finalizing the lineup to defend the Southeast Asian championship title.

Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Pham Gia Hung, Nguyen Xuan Son, Doan Van Hau (from left) during the Vietnam national team's training session before the friendly match against Myanmar, at Thai Nguyen Stadium on 17/7/2026. Photo: Giang Huy

Key players like Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, and Xuan Son are expected to form the core of the team. Additionally, new faces such as Do Hoang Hen and Nguyen Tai Loc will have a chance to impress and secure their spots.

On the opposing side, Myanmar enters the match with several changes as coach Jorn Andersen makes his debut as head coach. The Norwegian coach views this encounter with Vietnam as an important occasion to assess player capabilities and build their playing style ahead of the ASEAN Cup.

Although this is a friendly, the match promises high professional quality as both teams consider it a crucial dress rehearsal. Vietnam is rated higher due to home advantage and a strong squad. However, Myanmar is likely to play with determination to make a positive impression under their new coach.

Luong Hieu - Xuan Binh