Hanoi, 21 February 2026 – These young players may not immediately secure starting positions in the Vietnam national team, but their presence remains highly valuable. They offer tactical flexibility and additional options, helping coach Kim Sang Sik build a more versatile and unpredictable squad.
One of the most promising candidates for inclusion in Vietnam’s lineup ahead of the crucial clash against Malaysia on March 31 in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers and ASEAN Cup 2026 preparations is forward Nguyen Thanh Nhan. He has been a trusted player under coach Kim Sang Sik, particularly during the SEA Games 33 and the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 campaigns.
Although Thanh Nhan may not yet match the overall profile or reputation of established strikers like Nguyen Xuan Son or Nguyen Tien Linh, and may receive less attention than fellow youngster Nguyen Dinh Bac, he brings a unique ability to create decisive moments. His unpredictability has already troubled several opponents, including U23 Thailand in the SEA Games final, U23 Philippines in the semifinals, and U23 Yemen during Asian qualifiers. Often overlooked by defenders focused on other attacking threats, Thanh Nhan has punished teams with sudden runs from the right flank into the penalty area, followed by powerful and precise finishes.
His strengths lie in his speed, technical ability, and effectiveness in set-piece situations — qualities that align perfectly with Kim Sang Sik’s tactical approach, which emphasizes attacking variation and penetration in the final third.
Another player with a similar impact potential is right-sided winger Pham Minh Phuc of Hanoi Police FC. While he may face stiff competition for a starting spot at the national level, Minh Phuc remains an important tactical asset. He provides excellent cover and competition for Vietnam’s current first-choice right winger, Truong Tien Anh.
Minh Phuc possesses comparable pace and technical quality, along with valuable positional flexibility. He can operate as a right-back, right midfielder, or right winger, making him a versatile option depending on tactical needs. His attacking instincts are particularly dangerous, as demonstrated by his decisive goal against U23 UAE in the quarterfinals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026. Having such a player available on the bench gives coach Kim Sang Sik reliable depth, especially when key players tire or injuries occur.
Another under-the-radar but crucial figure is central midfielder Nguyen Xuan Bac. Unlike creative stars such as Nguyen Hoang Duc or Nguyen Quang Hai, Xuan Bac does not rely on flashy skills or spectacular moments. Instead, he excels in a role that Vietnam currently needs the most — defensive midfield.
As attacking midfielders push forward to support offensive plays, someone must remain disciplined to protect the defense and disrupt opposition counterattacks. Xuan Bac fulfills this responsibility effectively, providing stability and balance. With other defensive midfield options facing inconsistency, declining form, or injury, his role becomes even more important.
While he may not attract headlines, Xuan Bac’s contribution is vital in maintaining the team’s structure. His presence ensures better balance between attack and defense, allowing Vietnam to function more efficiently as a cohesive unit. Together, players like Thanh Nhan, Minh Phuc, and Xuan Bac may not always be in the spotlight, but they represent essential pieces in Vietnam’s ongoing development under coach Kim Sang Sik.
VSN/RPT
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