In the first-leg match, Vietnam defeated Laos 5–0, extending their winning streak against the neighbouring side to 11 matches. With 9 points from 4 games and trailing group leaders Malaysia by 3 points, Vietnam must claim victory to keep their qualification hopes strong.

Speaking at a press conference on November 18, coach Kim said that his players were fully prepared for the match.

It will be Vietnam’s last game of 2025 and the team want to end the year on a positive note, said the Korean tactician.

He noted that the players are in good form and condition, and that they would do their best to deliver a strong performance and achieve a good result.

He emphasised that his players are fully focused on the upcoming match rather than looking too far ahead to the decisive meeting with Malaysia in March 2026.

The most important thing is to secure three points. A victory will give the team great motivation for the next match, he confided.

A major boost for Vietnam is the return of 28-year-old striker Xuan Son, who has been sidelined for nearly a year due to injury. Over the past 11 months, he played only a few minutes in an internal friendly match with his club Nam Dinh. Still, Coach Kim has left the door open for him to feature against Laos.

His return gives the team more attacking options, he said, hoping the Brazilian-born striker could bring good news to the fans with a goal.

Xuan Son, who believes he is physically ready, is expected to compete for playing time as Vietnam seek three crucial points.

Vietnam are scheduled to play Laos at 7:00 PM on November 19 at the Laos National Stadium, Vientiane.  

Xuan Son returns to the pitch, ready for Asian Cup clash with Laos

VOV.VN - Vietnam striker Nguyen Xuan Son officially returned to the national team on November 11 for the first training session at Viet Tri Stadium ahead of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Laos on November 18.