Hot football news afternoon 20/6: Vietnam national team aggressively rejuvenates

Coach Kim Sang-sik brings about a significant generational shift in Vietnam's national team, as the 2026 World Cup and the summer transfer window remain bustling with record-breaking moments, surprising injuries, and eye-catching transactions.

Vietnam national team embarks on a transition

The latest call-up list for Vietnam's national team for the 2026 ASEAN Championship reveals Coach Kim Sang-sik is accelerating the rejuvenation of the squad. Figures from the "golden generation" such as Cong Phuong, Xuan Truong, and Minh Vuong continue to be absent, while many key players from the 2024 ASEAN Championship title-winning squad are also omitted. Instead, the South Korean tactician gives opportunities to promising young talents like Dinh Bac, Van Khang, Hai Long, Trung Kien, and Dinh Quang Kiet. Besides professional factors, the fact that several veterans compete in the First Division also puts them at a disadvantage in the competition for positions.

This move signals that Vietnam's national team is entering a new development cycle, aiming to build a youthful, ambitious core for long-term goals in the future.

U19 players have a clear path to professionalism

The 2026 National Second Division concluded with the joy of promotion for Tre Ha Noi and Hue, opening up significant development opportunities for many Vietnam U19 players. Representing Tre Ha Noi, promising talents like goalkeeper Chu Bá Huấn, Đậu Hồng Phong, and Nguyễn Thiên Phú will gain experience in the upcoming First Division season.

"The Capital City team," under the guidance of Coach Phạm Minh Đức, possesses a generation of young prospects ready to step into the professional environment. Meanwhile, Hue also draws attention with striker Hoàng Công Hậu, a young talent belonging to Thể Công - Viettel. Regular playing time in the First Division will serve as a crucial stepping stone for these young players to accumulate experience, refine their skills, and aim for greater goals with the national teams.

Paraguay courageously defeats Turkey

Paraguay secured an emotional 1-0 victory over Turkey in a thrilling match. As early as the 2nd minute, Matias Galarza shone with a beautiful long-range shot after an assist from Julio Enciso, giving the South American side an early lead. A turning point came late in the first half when Miguel Almiron received a straight red card following a VAR review, forcing Paraguay to play with ten men from the 45+3 minute onward. Despite this, the South American team played resiliently under heavy pressure from Turkey in the second half. Dangerous chances were repeatedly missed by Can Uzun, Deniz Gul, and Merih Demiral, while goalkeeper Orlando Gill made several outstanding saves. This brave win helps Paraguay maintain a crucial advantage in the 2026 World Cup race.

Canada pays a heavy price after victory

Canada achieved a resounding 6-0 win over Qatar at the 2026 World Cup, but the joy was dampened when midfielder Ismael Kone suffered a severe injury. The 24-year-old star broke his leg following a dangerous tackle by Assim Madibo, a incident that resulted in the Qatari player receiving a straight red card.

According to the Canadian Soccer Association, Kone underwent successful surgery but may be sidelined for up to a year. This injury is not only a major loss for the Canadian national team but also significantly impacts his club, Sassuolo. Nevertheless, the Serie A side will receive compensation from FIFA under the Club Protection Programme, with an estimated amount of nearly £480,000. Doctors are optimistic that Kone can fully recover after treatment and rehabilitation.

Rashford faces a major turning point

The future of Marcus Rashford has become a hot topic in the summer 2026 transfer market after Barcelona decided not to activate his buyout clause. The English striker had a fairly successful season at Camp Nou, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists in 49 matches, contributing to the Catalan club's La Liga title. However, Rashford has now returned to Manchester United, and his potential stay at Old Trafford remains uncertain. Notably, former defender William Gallas believes Chelsea is a more suitable destination than Arsenal if the 28-year-old returns to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, legend Rio Ferdinand rates Rashford as more mature after his time in Spain. With impressive form and a standout performance at the 2026 World Cup, Rashford is set to be one of the most sought-after names this summer.

Notable football news highlights

Hanoi has begun a squad overhaul under Coach Harry Kewell by parting ways with three Brazilian foreign players: Daniel Passira, Adriel Silva, and Luiz Fernando.

In the 2026 World Cup, Brazil received bad news as Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury and faces the risk of missing the remainder of the tournament. Nevertheless, "Selecao" made history by surpassing Germany to become the team with the most goals in World Cup history, with 241 strikes. Meanwhile, the US national team continues to impress with two consecutive wins, receiving special encouragement from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who believes the hosts can win the World Cup.

In the transfer market, Mason Greenwood is facing an opportunity to return to the Premier League, with Arsenal and Tottenham showing interest, while several European giants are also preparing intensively for the new season.