The Vietnam national team boasts the tallest lineup in its history, ready to face Malaysia

Thanks to the blend of high-quality naturalized players and a physically superior U23 generation, coach Kim Sang-sik currently commands the tallest squad ever in Vietnamese football history.

The 0-4 defeat against Malaysia at Bukit Jalil Stadium during the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers clearly exposed Vietnam's physical shortcomings. Facing opponents with South American and European naturalized players, Kim Sang-sik’s team was outmatched in both one-on-one duels and aerial battles. However, the current situation is different.

In the training camp preparing for the final match against Malaysia on March 31 at Thien Truong Stadium, coach Kim can call up at least 10 players taller than 1.80 meters. This is considered the most physically imposing squad in the team’s history.

In goal, Nguyen Filip (1.92m), Tran Trung Kien (1.91m), Patrik Le Giang (1.91m), and Dang Van Lam (1.89m) form one of the tallest goalkeeper lineups in Southeast Asia. In defense, Do Duy Manh (1.80m), Doan Van Hau (1.85m), and Do Phi Long (1.95m) strengthen the team’s power in aerial challenges.

The midfield and forward lines are no longer “small” as before. Nguyen Hoang Duc (1.83m), Do Hoang Hen (1.81m), Nguyen Xuan Son (1.85m), and Nguyen Tien Linh (1.81m) all have good physical stature. Additionally, the next generation such as Nguyen Dinh Bac (1.80m), Pham Ly Duc (1.82m), Nguyen Hieu Minh (1.84m), and Dinh Quang Kiet (1.96m) demonstrate an increasing pool of tall talent.

This change comes from three main sources: overseas Vietnamese players like Filip, Van Lam, and Le Giang; naturalized players who have spent years competing in the V-League such as Xuan Son, Hoang Hen, and Phi Long; and the U23, U20 generations trained with more systematic nutrition and fitness programs. As a result, the idea of “Vietnamese players being small but skillful” is gradually becoming an inaccurate description for the entire team.

Of course, football is not just about height comparison. However, good physicality is crucial for maintaining ball control, winning duels, and executing tactics effectively. As regional teams like Malaysia and Indonesia strengthen their squads through naturalization to boost power, Vietnam’s physical upgrade is a necessary step.

Coach Kim Sang-sik is not only changing the playing style but also aiming for a comprehensive overhaul of the team’s fitness and physical contact abilities. The upcoming match against Malaysia may result in a win or loss, but the key is for Vietnam to compete evenly on every inch of the pitch.

With the tallest squad in history, the Vietnam national team is entering a clear transformation phase. This journey aims for a new look: taller, stronger, and ready to compete more fiercely regionally and continentally.