Kuala Lumpur, 10 June 2025 – As Vietnam prepares for their crucial encounter against Malaysia, head coach Kim Sang Sik is expected to field a balanced and experienced lineup. With the goal of maintaining top spot in Group F and continuing their unbeaten streak against Malaysia, this is the projected optimal starting XI:
Goalkeeper – Dinh Trieu
Dinh Trieu is favored to start between the posts thanks to his consistent form, composure under pressure, and excellent communication with the backline. His leadership and organizational skills make him the top candidate for this high-stakes clash.
Defenders – Tien Dung, Thanh Chung, Duy Manh
Vietnam is likely to deploy a back three featuring the reliable trio of Bui Tien Dung, Nguyen Thanh Chung, and Do Duy Manh. All three are in strong form and possess the necessary chemistry and tactical awareness to contain Malaysia’s newly strengthened attack, including their naturalized players.
Midfield – Van Vi, Duc Chien, Hoang Duc, Xuan Manh
Despite the presence of naturalized defender Cao Pendant Quang Vinh in the squad, both Van Vi and Xuan Manh are expected to retain their wing-back roles, offering both defensive stability and attacking support. In central midfield, Nguyen Duc Chien will provide physicality and ball-winning ability, while Nguyen Hoang Duc is expected to control the tempo and create opportunities through his vision and passing.
Forwards – Hai Long, Tuan Hai, Quang Hai
With striker Nguyen Tien Linh struggling for form, Nguyen Van Tuan Hai is likely to be chosen to lead the line. The Hanoi FC forward has shown sharpness and movement in recent performances. Supporting him will be Nguyen Hai Long and Nguyen Quang Hai, who can rotate fluidly or see Quang Hai drop into a more central attacking midfielder role. This setup allows for dynamic switching and adaptability in the final third.
Formation: 3-4-3 (with flexibility to shift to 3-4-2-1 depending on game flow)
Predicted Lineup (3-4-3):
GK: Dinh Trieu
CBs: Tien Dung – Thanh Chung – Duy Manh
WBs: Van Vi – Xuan Manh
CMs: Duc Chien – Hoang Duc
FWs: Hai Long – Tuan Hai – Quang Hai
This starting XI balances experience, current form, and tactical discipline, which will be crucial in countering Malaysia’s physicality and unpredictability due to their newly naturalized additions. Victory will put Vietnam in a commanding position to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
Dang Long
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