U22 Vietnam and the Hope for Gold at SEA Games 33

02/12/2025 11:21:00 TrophyTracker

Just as Coach Kim Sang Sik’s team boldly won the 2025 U23 Southeast Asia Championship in Indonesia, U22 Vietnam enters SEA Games 33 with confidence, determination, and the stature of a leading championship contender. A stable lineup, excellent form, and a defined playing style have prepared U22 Vietnam to pursue the gold medal in Thailand.

Two years after missing the mark under Coach Philippe Troussier, U22 Vietnam steps intoSEA Games 33with a completely different mindset. The squad, meticulously chosen by Coach Kim Sang Sik, possesses confidence, resilience, and strong foundations aimed at the highest objectives. The Korean coach has infused new life into Vietnamese football over the past two years.

Coach Kim Sang Sik’s success goes beyond titles; it lies in how he has built the team. He guided Vietnam to win the 2024 ASEAN Cup, led U22 Vietnam to the 2025 U23 Southeast Asia Championship, secured a spot in the 2026 U23 Asian Championship finals, and opened the gateway to the 2027 Asian Cup amid Malaysia’s threat of severe AFC penalties.

This stability and momentum remind Vietnamese fans of the "golden era" under Coach Park Hang Seo. Both Korean coaches have left significant tactical and strategic marks that have elevated Vietnamese football to the spotlight. Their connection to Vietnamese football, player insight, and philosophy of discipline, flexibility, and pragmatism are prominent shared traits.

AtSEA Games 33, Coach Kim Sang Sik has a major advantage with a core group that has consistently supported him over the past six months, from international campaigns to high-quality friendlies. This team includes many seasoned players who regularly compete in the V-League and fully grasp tactical requirements.

U22 Vietnam carries great expectations for their upcoming SEA Games 33 campaign following successful runs in the U23 Southeast Asia tournament and the 2026 U23 Asian qualifiers. Photo: Tuan Pham

Even without playmaker Van Truong due to injury, U22 Vietnam still inspires confidence thanks to a balanced roster and the versatility that Coach Kim Sang Sik prioritizes. Players like Le Phat, who can play as a winger or even drop back as a central midfielder, are strategic assets for tense matches. Cong Phuong is a similar case, capable of surprising opponents at SEA Games 33 thanks to his rapport with Coach Kim Sang Sik.

Given the short preparation time, Coach Kim Sang Sik opts for stability over risk, especially as he needs to maintain the tactical structure developed over a long period.

Looking regionally, U22 Vietnam’s rivals face various challenges. Host U22 Thailand benefits from home advantage but cannot call up their best players because the Thai League has not released them, despite Thailand hosting SEA Games 33. Thailand also lacks an outstanding generation of players compared to previous periods, narrowing the gap with Vietnam more than ever.

Preview and odds analysis for U22 Laos vs U22 Vietnam at 16:00 on December 3, Group B, SEA Games 2025

Another notable competitor, U22 Malaysia, is struggling following a shock FIFA sanction for falsifying naturalized player documents. The turmoil at the federation level surely affects the youth teams’ morale and stability. U23 Indonesia recently lost at home to U23 Vietnam in the U23 Southeast Asia tournament and is in a state of uncertainty after the national team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. All these factors create a favorable environment for U22 Vietnam to break through.

Nevertheless, the SEA Games journey is never easy. Coach Kim Sang Sik’s lengthy deliberation and the announcement of the 23-player squad only on the morning of November 30 show his awareness that every decision could determine the team’s fate.

But with a solid foundation, thorough preparation, and a strong fighting spirit, U22 Vietnam has every reason to believe in their golden dream, as they did at SEA Games 30 and 31.

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