Indonesian media is buzzing about the height of the Vietnam national team

Superball confirms that Vietnam possesses its tallest lineup ever, with many players exceeding 1.80 meters, prepared to stand out against Malaysia.

According to Superball, the Vietnam team is undergoing a significant transformation as coach Kim Sang-sik commands what is considered the strongest squad in the country's football history, aiming for a decisive rematch against Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Superball points out that the 0-4 loss at Bukit Jalil against Malaysia exposed Vietnam's physical limitations, especially in one-on-one duels and aerial battles. However, for the upcoming training camp ahead of the March 31 match at Thien Truong Stadium, the coaching staff plans to call up at least 10 players taller than 1.80 meters, a rare figure in the past.

In goal, names like Nguyen Filip (1.92m), Tran Trung Kien (1.91m), Patrik Le Giang (1.89m), and Dang Van Lam (1.89m) form one of the region's most physically imposing goalkeeper groups. In defense, Do Duy Manh (1.80m), Doan Van Hau (1.85m), and Do Phi Long (1.95m) significantly boost aerial strength.

The midfield and attack are also no longer lacking in stature. Nguyen Hoang Duc (1.83m), Nguyen Xuan Son (1.85m), Nguyen Tien Linh (1.81m)... all meet strong physical standards. The next generation, like Dinh Quang Kiet (1.96m) and Nguyen Hieu Minh (1.84m), shows an increasing abundance of tall players.

Superball believes this change comes from three main sources: Vietnamese overseas players competing abroad, naturalized players with years of experience in the V-League, and the U23 and U20 generations who have received systematic nutrition and fitness training. Thus, the idea of "Vietnamese players being small but skillful" no longer fully represents the current image.

Currently, Malaysia leads Group F with a perfect 15 points from 5 matches, while Vietnam is second with 12 points. Since only the group winner qualifies for the 2027 Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia, Kim Sang-sik's team must defeat Malaysia by at least a four-goal margin to overturn the situation. According to Superball, this match is not only crucial for advancing but also a test of Vietnam football's comprehensive "transformation."