Vietnam national team 'transforms': Is Xuan Son no longer the focal point?

Kim Sang-sik is progressively constructing a more balanced Vietnam squad, featuring a sturdy defensive base and fresh attacking strategies, set to stand out at the 2026 ASEAN Championship.

The Vietnam national team (VNT) is entering a crucial preparation phase for the 2026 ASEAN Championship and other goals. Instead of continuing to build the play around Nguyen Xuan Son as before, Coach Kim Sang-sik seems to be nurturing a new plan, promising a different look for the "Golden Star warriors."

Since taking charge of the Vietnam team, Coach Kim Sang-sik has consistently shown flexibility in managing the squad. Depending on the opponent and situation, he is ready to adjust the tactical system and game tempo. However, there is one almost unchanging principle under Kim Sang-sik: Defense is always the foundation for all calculations.

The 3-5-2 formation and its variations have been continuously employed by the Korean strategist in recent tournaments. At the 2024 ASEAN Championship, Vietnam conceded only two goals after the group stage. At the U23 level, the young players also suffered just one loss in the early phase of the Asian U23 Championship. These figures show that Kim Sang-sik always prioritizes solidity before considering attacking options.

Looking ahead to the 2026 ASEAN Championship, that foundation is likely to be maintained. However, the noteworthy point lies in the changes on the attack. With goalkeeper Le Giang Patrick eligible to play and Doan Van Hau ready to return, the squad's quality is significantly enhanced, but what fans are most anticipating is the emergence of new factors capable of creating breakthroughs.

In modern football, effective attack is also a form of defense. When a team controls the ball well and applies constant pressure on the opponent's half, it significantly reduces the time spent defending counterattacks. This is also why naturalized players like Nguyen Tai Loc (Geovane), Do Hoang Hen, and Xuan Son himself are expected to make a difference.

Whereas previously most of Vietnam's attacks often targeted Xuan Son as the final destination, in Kim Sang-sik's new plan, the Nam Dinh striker may no longer be the sole focal point. The Korean coach is aiming for a more diverse system where many players have the ability to score and create breakthroughs.

That can also be considered the "secret weapon" that Vietnam is quietly preparing. Instead of depending on one individual, the team will possess multiple dangerous threats spread across the attack. This not only makes the team more unpredictable but also makes it difficult for opponents to devise countermeasures.

Of course, there is still a gap between expectations and reality, and only official matches can provide accurate answers. However, with new personnel choices and a clear tactical direction from Coach Kim Sang-sik, fans have every right to expect a more diverse, balanced, and formidable version of the Vietnam national team in the near future.