South Korea, 3rd July 2026 – Vietnam national team held their first training session in South Korea on the evening of July 3 as part of their preparation for the 2026 ASEAN Cup. Midfielder Nguyen Hai Long admitted that he and his teammates do not yet know much about the opponents they will face during the camp.
Vietnam’s training ground is located around 15 minutes by bus from the team hotel. Weather conditions in Incheon have been favorable, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius and a cool atmosphere, creating ideal conditions for outdoor training.
The change in environment, scenery, and pleasant weather helped the players quickly find motivation in their first session. However, the coaching staff soon shifted the focus back to work, putting the squad through detailed tactical drills and increasing the training intensity to help the players reach their best physical condition ahead of the friendly matches.
Speaking before the session, Nguyen Hai Long said the team is in good spirits and fully determined to make the most of the camp.
“Before the previous ASEAN Cup, the national team also trained in South Korea and later had a successful tournament. This time, everyone is ready and fully focused on preparing well. We hope to achieve the goals the whole team has set,” Hai Long said.
Compared to the training camp two years ago, Hai Long believes this year’s conditions are once again excellent.
“Everything is very good, from the weather and training pitches to the accommodation and meals. The organizers have prepared everything carefully so that the team can train and prepare in the best possible way for the coming days.”
According to the schedule, Vietnam will play three friendly matches against opponents of increasing difficulty: Siheung FC from K League 3, Yongin FC from K League 2, and Gangwon FC from K League 1. Hai Long said these matches will be useful tests for the coaching staff and a good chance for the players to prove themselves.
“We do not have much information about the opponents yet, but these will be very useful friendly matches for the coaching staff to assess the squad. Every player will try to show his best ability.”
Asked about competition within the squad following the arrival of naturalized and overseas Vietnamese players, Hai Long said the whole team is focused on the same goal.
“My teammates and I do not feel pressured. Everyone is trying to perform at their best for the team’s common goal. Competition will only help the national team become stronger.”
The three friendly matches in South Korea will give head coach Kim Sang Sik and his staff an important opportunity to review the squad and refine tactical plans before Vietnam return home for an international friendly against Myanmar. After that, the team will travel to face Timor-Leste in their opening match of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.
VSN/RPT
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