Vietnam depart for Malaysia ahead of crucial 2027 Asian Cup qualifier
VOV.VN - Coach Kim Sang-sik and his players of the Vietnam national team left Hanoi on June 6, heading to Malaysia to prepare for their important match in the third qualification round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Kuala Lumpur on June 10.
Speaking to reporters at Noi Bai International Airport, captain Do Duy Manh expressed confidence despite Malaysia strengthening their squad with new naturalised players.
“We have thoroughly studied our opponents and trained carefully for this match,” Duy Manh said, adding that the team are determined to secure a victory at Bukit Jalil Stadium.
Before heading to Malaysia, Vietnamese players spent over a week training at the VFF Youth Football Training Centre. During the training camp, coach Kim unfortunately had to deal with several injury setbacks, with key players such as Bui Hoang Viet Anh, Nguyen Thanh Binh, and Nguyen Cong Phuong forced to leave the squad early.
To maintain a full roster, the Korean coach called up replacements Dang Van Toi, Pham Ly Duc, and Nguyen Quoc Viet.
The team also played a friendly match against the U22 team, securing a 2-1 victory. This match provided Kim with a comprehensive assessment of his players, helping him finalise tactics and prepare for the upcoming clash against Malaysia.
The away match is a critical step for Vietnam in their pursuit of topping Group F and securing a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
According to the latest FIFA rankings, Vietnam hold the 109th position, 22 places ahead of Malaysia. Beyond the qualifying results, this fixture also presents an opportunity for Vietnam to improve their global ranking.
Statistics show Malaysia and Vietnam have faced each other eight times in official tournaments since 2014, with Malaysia suffering seven defeats and one draw.
Vietnam’s upcoming qualification fixtures include matches against Nepal on October 9 and 14, 2025, Laos on November 18, 2025, and a return match against Malaysia on March 31, 2026.
The 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification features 24 teams divided into six groups. The top team from each group will qualify for the final tournament, joining hosts Saudi Arabia.
Vietnam previously qualified for the Asian Cup finals in 2019 and 2023, with their best performance reaching the quarter-finals in 2019.
VTV clinches broadcast deal for Vietnam-Malaysia Asian Cup qualifier
VOV.VN - Vietnam Television (VTV) has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the 2027 Asian Cup qualifier between Vietnam and Malaysia, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on June 10.
