Vietnam to play Uzbekistan in friendlies ahead of Women’s Asian Cup
VOV.VN - Vietnam’s women’s national football team will play two international friendlies against Uzbekistan later this month as part of their preparations for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, head coach Mai Duc Chung said.
The matches are scheduled for Jan. 26 and Jan. 29, during the team’s current training camp. The fixtures are expected to serve as key tests for the coaching staff to assess squad depth and overall readiness ahead of the continental tournament.
The team held their first training session on January 14 at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Centre in Hanoi, officially kicking off preparations for the Asian Cup.
Coach Mai Duc Chung has named a 28-player squad, including 23 players who featured at the recent SEA Games 33, alongside several younger players. The inclusion of younger talents is part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the squad and build depth for both short- and long-term objectives.
The veteran coach said the national team remain open to young players who show strong form, commitment and competitive spirit, particularly standouts from the Vietnam National U19 Women’s Championship.
The current camp also marks the coach’s return to the national team after he stepped down following SEA Games 33. He changed his mind following discussions with the leadership of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF).
Speaking ahead of the training session, Chung said he decided to return after a period of rest, with his health fully recovered and his motivation intact. He added that the training camp is to enhance the players’ physical fitness, maintain a high-pressing style, and improve finishing.
In early February, Vietnam’s women’s team will travel to China for further training, before returning home briefly for the Lunar New Year break and then regrouping.
At the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 finals, Vietnam have been drawn in Group C alongside Japan, India and Chinese Taipei.