Coach Kim Sang Sik: 'Xuân Son can play'

Coach Kim Sang Sik confirms Xuân Son has thigh muscle pain but it's mild, still meets fitness conditions to play in the match against Bangladesh at 19:00 on March 26 at Hàng Đẫy Stadium (Hanoi).

At the pre-match press conference, Coach Kim Sang Sik said: "After five years of dedication to clubs in V-League, Hoàng Hên has his first opportunity to play for the Vietnam national team, I am very happy about this.

After five years of proving himself, this is his first chance to play for the Vietnam national team. Recently, after observing Hên's training, I evaluate that he provides the coaching staff with many options to create more scoring opportunities.

Xuân Son and Hoàng Hên can be used in various attacking setups, two forwards or one central forward. Xuân Son has mild thigh pain but upon examination, he is still in optimal physical condition to play tomorrow".

Regarding the return of Văn Hậu and Đình Trọng to the defense line, Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized: "They have had a good period of play in V-League, meeting the conditions to play for the national team.

Đình Trọng and Văn Hậu have faced long-term injuries, which was truly tough and difficult. After such a period, Văn Hậu returns with good health and fitness.

The return of these two players is highly anticipated. With their presence in the defense line, the Vietnam national team becomes stronger, while also creating fair competition and helping us have the best lineup.

I know Chounhary currently plays in the English First Division. We, along with the players, analyze videos, the style and gameplay of the entire Bangladesh team to find the best countermeasures.

We have suitable options to deal with the strength of the Bangladesh team, thereby aiming for victory in tomorrow's match.

The Bangladesh team has changed significantly now, from coaching staff to lineup as they have added players who play abroad.

Some Bangladesh players previously played against Vietnam U23 in the 2026 Asian U23 qualifiers. I assess their current lineup.

Captain and center-back Đỗ Duy Mạnh shared: "We highly respect the opponent Bangladesh, will try to focus fully, play our best in the upcoming match. Hoàng Hên speaks Vietnamese well. His presence here is acknowledged by Coach Kim and the coaching staff.

I am also very happy that Đình Trọng and Văn Hậu have returned. Any player returning after injury deserves recognition. Hopefully they will perform very well in this training camp.

We will focus on playing and follow the coaching staff's instructions. Even though it's just a friendly, the Vietnam national team will still strive to beat Bangladesh because it also relates to FIFA ranking".