Coach Kim Sang Sik sends a strong message ahead of the ASEAN Cup

Following a four-week training camp in South Korea, Vietnam's squad is conducting its last full rehearsal ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Cup through a friendly against Myanmar. Kim Sang Sik stated that the team has been meticulously prepared tactically and considers this match an important chance to evaluate the players and refine the roster before the title defense.

Vietnam will face Myanmar at 19:00 on July 18 at Thai Nguyen Stadium in their final international friendly before heading to the 2026 ASEAN Cup. For Coach Kim Sang Sik, this is not only a dress rehearsal but also an opportunity for the coaching staff to assess the results of the four-week preparation period in South Korea.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the South Korean coach said: "Before the 2026 ASEAN Cup, Vietnam had four weeks of training in South Korea. In terms of fitness, mentality, and tactics, the team is very well prepared. In the match against Myanmar, we will give our best to enter the tournament at peak form. We will try to score many goals to bring joy to the fans."

"Vietnam has a very strong attacking line. We have Nguyen Xuan Son, Do Hoang Hen, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Hoang Duc, and most recently Nguyen Tai Loc, a newly naturalized player, along with other quality names.

We are trying to find the best combination of attacking players through each match. The game against Myanmar is an opportunity for the coaching staff to see how the players perform after four weeks of training. I also hope no player gets injured in this match so that the team can have the best preparation for the tournament."

In defense, Vietnam has suffered losses as some key players had to leave the squad due to injuries. However, Kim Sang Sik asserted that the team still maintains stability.

"It's a pity that Khuat Van Khang, Le Ngoc Bao, and Do Duy Manh could not continue with the national team due to not recovering from injuries in time. Khong Minh Gia Bao has joined the team. Vietnam is well prepared and does not rely on any individual player. We are always a united collective."

Assessing the opponent, the South Korean strategist believes that Myanmar has undergone many changes after appointing new coach Jorn Andersen.

"Two years ago, Vietnam beat Myanmar 5-0 (in the group stage of the 2024 ASEAN Cup - Editor's note). Now, they have a new coach. I know his capabilities have been proven in the K League. That motivates Myanmar players to perform well."

Coach Kim Sang Sik also does not want to talk too much about the goal of defending the ASEAN Cup title, instead focusing on each match.

"For now, Vietnam's goal is to get past the group stage. After that, we will think about the next opponent. The team will step onto the pitch with the highest spirit in every match to play well each game.

Recently, the Vietnam team trained while the 2026 World Cup was underway. I and the players also watched some matches. Those were very exciting games, making me wish that one day, Vietnamese players will be able to participate in this competition. That is my dream."

"When I was honored by the coaching staff and teammates to be given the captain's armband, the first thing I strive to do is fulfill my duties well. I always try to unite the players. The Vietnamese national team members are also very professional. We always put the team first.

This is a friendly match, but the whole team still aims for a good result. We want to have the best preparation before entering the official tournament."