OFFICIAL: Vietnam Football Federation extends contract with Japanese coach

VFF is moving forward with the contract extension for coach Okiyama Masahiko, who manages the U17 and U20 Vietnamese women's squads.

The Vietnam Football Federation has officially renewed the contract with Japanese expert Okiyama Masahiko, thereby continuing to place trust in the experienced coach on the journey to elevate the youth women's football teams. This decision is considered a significant step in the long-term investment strategy for the training foundation, especially as the U17 and U20 teams prepare their squads for major continental goals in the coming years.

Ahead of the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026, on behalf of the Vietnam Football Federation leadership, Secretary General Nguyễn Văn Phú visited the training ground, to extend New Year greetings to the coaching staff and players of the two youth national teams training at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center. The meeting atmosphere was warm yet filled with determination, as everyone was fully aware of the tasks ahead in the new competitive year.

At the venue, Secretary General Nguyễn Văn Phú personally handed over the new contract to Mr. Okiyama Masahiko. Federation leaders expressed confidence that with his extensive expertise and dedicated spirit, the Japanese expert will continue to bring positive changes to the training system. Maintaining stability in the coaching position is expected to provide young players with a consistent development environment aligned with unified philosophies and training methods.

Born on March 15, 1968, Mr. Okiyama has been involved with football for over three decades. Before coming to Vietnam, he held various roles ranging from youth development to managing professional teams. A highlight of his career was coaching the Jordan women's national team from 2012 to 2014, as well as overseeing development programs for the Japan Football Association.

Moreover, this coach has also worked in traditional football environments such as Shonan Bellmare and Yamato Sylphid, while serving as an advisor for local teams in Kanagawa prefecture. This diverse experience forms the foundation for him to develop training programs suited to Vietnamese youth players, focusing on both technical skills and tactical thinking.

The initial contract between him and VFF was signed on March 10, 2025, and this renewal confirms mutual satisfaction. Going forward, he will continue as head coach of the U17 and U20 Vietnamese women's teams. According to plans, players will have a break from February 12 and regroup on February 23 (the 7th day of the lunar calendar). Logistics and transportation for players to return home and reunite with family have been carefully arranged, providing a good mental foundation before resuming training.