Vietnam team faces Myanmar in Thai Nguyen: A warm-up for the 2026 ASEAN Cup

During the afternoon of June 25, the VFF, together with the Thai Nguyen Provincial People's Committee, convened a meeting to discuss preparations for the upcoming international friendly between Vietnam and Myanmar, which is set for July 18 at Thai Nguyen Stadium.

The conference was chaired by Vice Chairman of the Thai Nguyen Provincial People's Committee, Duong Van Luong, and attended by VFF General Secretary Nguyen Van Phu, along with representatives from local departments, agencies, and VFF's professional units.

This marks the first time the Vietnam national team has played an international match in Thai Nguyen. As a result, both sides are paying special attention to organization to ensure professional standards, security, safety, and service for fans.

During the conference, the VFF reported on the match organization plan and proposed that the local authorities soon set up an Organizing Committee and specialized subcommittees to coordinate tasks such as security, medical services, logistics, media, ticketing, reception of both teams, and match management.

Leaders of the Thai Nguyen Provincial People's Committee affirmed they will work closely with the VFF to prepare thoroughly for the event, viewing it as an opportunity to promote the local image through an international sports event.

According to the plan, the Vietnam and Myanmar teams will arrive in Thai Nguyen on July 15 or 16 to train and adapt to the competition conditions before the friendly match on July 18.

The match against Myanmar also acts as the last dress rehearsal for coach Kim Sang Sik's squad before they embark on their title defense journey at the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

Based on the draw results, Vietnam is in Group A alongside Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, and the winner of the play-off between Brunei and Timor Leste. Vietnam will face Timor Leste away (July 24), host Singapore (July 30), travel to Indonesia (August 3), and conclude the group stage by hosting Cambodia (August 7).

With limited preparation time, the friendly against Myanmar is expected to help the coaching staff finalize the squad, review personnel, and refine tactics before entering the regional tournament, where Vietnam aims to successfully defend its championship title.