The plan was discussed at the 12th meeting of the VFF Executive Committee (ninth term), where preparations for the Vietnam national team in the second quarter of 2026 were put forth.

Under the proposal, the team are expected to assemble around five weeks before the tournament. This period will allow head coach Kim Sang Sik to put together the squad, complete tactical organisation and bring the team to stable physical and mental condition.

A plan to send the team abroad for training is also under consideration, with the aim of providing stronger competitive conditions.

The AFF Cup 2026 will be held in August instead of the usual year-end schedule. The change is intended to align with the FIFA calendar and allow teams to field their strongest squads.

As defending champions, Vietnam face pressure, having been drawn in Group A alongside Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia and the winner of the play-off between Brunei and Timor-Leste.

Group B includes Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Laos, setting up another competitive group.

The group stage will run from July 24 to August 8, followed by the semi-finals and final, played on a home-and-away basis, from August 15 to 26.

With a packed schedule and rising expectations, the decision to assemble early and consider overseas training points to a change in preparation. It is part of efforts to maintain Vietnam’s position in the region, where the gap between teams continues to narrow.

Seven Vietnamese players selected in ASEAN Cup 2024 best XI lineup

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