Vietnam National Team's Strongest Lineup Against Malaysia

Ahead of the crucial match against Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on March 31, Vietnam's strongest squad is gradually taking shape with the familiar 3-4-3 formation.

In the goalkeeper position, Đình Triệu is considered the first choice for Vietnam. In his debut official tournament with the national team, he made a strong impression by winning the Best Goalkeeper award at the 2024 AFF Cup and played a major role in leading the team to the championship. His consistency, sharp reflexes, and strong mental focus have earned him full trust. Backup options include Văn Lâm and Trung Kiên, ensuring depth and competition for the goalkeeping spot.

The expected three central defenders are Đoàn Văn Hậu on the left, Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh in the center, and Đỗ Phi Long on the right. These players are regaining top form at Công An Hà Nội club, especially Việt Anh (1.84 m), Văn Hậu (1.86 m), and Phi Long (1.95 m) all of whom have a significant height advantage.

Additionally, Vietnam still has quality alternatives such as Nguyễn Thành Chung, Đỗ Duy Mạnh, Trần Đình Trọng, and Bùi Tiến Dũng. Notably, the current domestic central defenders play with strength, excel in aerial duels, and show no fear when facing tall foreign strikers.

The midfield area is seen as a crucial zone in Vietnam's strongest lineup. At the center, Hoàng Đức continues to act as the playmaker, controlling the tempo and delivering decisive passes. Partnering him is Quang Hải, a player with excellent technique and tactical vision, which enhances creativity in the team's style of play.

Hoàng Đức and Quang Hải have scored 5 and 3 goals respectively in this V.League season, with Hoàng Đức being the top-scoring domestic player. On the bench, Lê Phạm Thành Long and Doãn Ngọc Tân can be introduced if midfield reinforcement is needed.

The two wing positions are likely to be occupied by Cao Pendant Quang Vinh on the left and Xuân Mạnh on the right. On the bench, players promoted from the U23 squad such as Phi Hoàng and Minh Phúc bring energy and speed, ready to shake things up when coming on in the second half. Additionally, frequently called-up players like Tiến Anh and Văn Vĩ provide tactical flexibility, giving Coach Kim Sang-sik more options to increase wing pressure or hold the score.

Up front, Xuân Son is positioned as the main striker. Supporting him are Tuấn Hải on the left wing and Hoàng Hên on the right wing. Tuấn Hải shone in the 2024 ASEAN Cup final with a goal and a forced own goal by the opponent. Meanwhile, Hoàng Hên is in great form at his club with 4 goals and 3 assists in 7 matches this season. Backup options upfront include Tiến Linh (if he recovers from injury in time), Phạm Gia Hưng, and Geovane (if nationality procedures are completed).

With a 3-4-3 formation rich in stamina, skill, and squad depth, Vietnam is expected to take control against Malaysia. If key players maintain their form, this could be the optimal lineup aiming for a favorable result in the upcoming match.

Related Articles

Vietnam National Team Suffers Major Loss, Nearly Half the Squad Unable to Play Against Malaysia Vietnam faces a challenging personnel situation ahead of the rematch against Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on March 31. See More

Đình Triệu Steadfast in Goal

In the goalkeeper position, Đình Triệu is considered the first choice for Vietnam. In his debut official tournament with the national team, he made a strong impression by winning the Best Goalkeeper award at the 2024 AFF Cup and played a major role in leading the team to the championship. His consistency, sharp reflexes, and strong mental focus have earned him full trust. Backup options include Văn Lâm and Trung Kiên, ensuring depth and competition for the goalkeeping spot.

A Physically Strong Three-Man Defense

The expected three central defenders are Đoàn Văn Hậu on the left, Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh in the center, and Trần Đình Trọng on the right. These players are regaining top form at Công An Hà Nội club, especially Việt Anh (1.84 m) and Văn Hậu (1.86 m) who have a notable height advantage. Additionally, Vietnam still has quality options like Nguyễn Thành Chung, Đỗ Duy Mạnh, and Bùi Tiến Dũng. Naturalized defender Đỗ Phi Long (1.95 m) is also a notable addition if given the chance. Importantly, the current domestic central defenders play aggressively, are strong in aerial duels, and are not intimidated by tall foreign attackers.

Midfield with Quang Hải and Hoàng Đức as the Key to Controlling the Game

The midfield is regarded as the pivotal area in Vietnam's strongest lineup. At its core, Hoàng Đức remains the conductor, managing the pace and delivering critical passes. Alongside him is Quang Hải, a player with excellent technique and tactical awareness, boosting creativity in play. Hoàng Đức and Quang Hải have scored 5 and 3 goals respectively this V.League season, with Hoàng Đức being the top domestic scorer. On the bench, Lê Phạm Thành Long and Doãn Ngọc Tân can be subbed in to strengthen midfield if necessary. The two wing positions are likely held by Cao Pendant Quang Vinh on the left and Xuân Mạnh on the right. From the bench, U23-promoted players like Phi Hoàng and Minh Phúc provide energy and speed, ready to impact the game in the second half. Moreover, frequently called-up players such as Tiến Anh and Văn Vĩ add tactical versatility, giving Coach Kim Sang-sik additional options to apply wing pressure or protect the lead. Up front, Xuân Son is placed as the main striker, supported by Tuấn Hải on the left wing and Hoàng Hên on the right. Tuấn Hải impressed in the 2024 ASEAN Cup final with one goal and causing an own goal. Meanwhile, Hoàng Hên is in excellent form at his club with 4 goals and 3 assists in 7 games this season. Backup forwards include Tiến Linh (if injury recovery permits), Phạm Gia Hưng, and Geovane (pending nationality clearance). With a 3-4-3 formation rich in fitness, skill, and squad depth, Vietnam is expected to control the match against Malaysia. If key players keep their form, this could be the ideal lineup aiming for a positive result in the upcoming fixture.