Hanoi, 28 April 2026 – On April 28, the Vietnam U19 national team officially regrouped at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center, marking the start of an important training phase ahead of the 2026 AFF U19 Championship and the longer-term goal of qualifying for the 2027 AFC U20 Asian Cup.
Earlier in March, the team completed its initial training camp, where more than 40 players were called up across two phases. This process allowed the coaching staff to closely monitor, assess, and shortlist the most promising talents from the 2007–2008 age group. It was a key step in building a comprehensive understanding of the squad’s depth and potential.
In this latest gathering, head coach Yutaka Ikeuchi and his staff have summoned a squad of 41 players. The primary objective is to refine the tactical structure and finalize the most competitive lineup possible, ensuring thorough preparation for upcoming regional and international competitions.
However, assembling the strongest squad has proven challenging. A number of players are currently committed to their respective clubs, competing in domestic professional leagues and the national Second Division. This has delayed their availability and prevented a fully synchronized training schedule from the outset. In addition, several players born in 2008 are expected to face scheduling conflicts with high school graduation exams, which overlap with the timing of the regional tournament.
Among the notable absentees in the early phase are goalkeeper Nguyen Bao Ngoc of Song Lam Nghe An, defenders Dinh Quang Kiet and Nguyen Quoc Khanh (PVF-CAND), forwards Tran Gia Bao (Hoang Anh Gia Lai), Nguyen Van Bach, Hoang Trong Duy Khang (PVF), Le Phat (Ninh Binh), Le Van Hoan (Thanh Hoa), midfielder Nguyen Van Khanh (Hong Linh Ha Tinh), along with Dau Hong Phong and Nguyen Thien Phu (Tre Ha Noi). These players are all highly rated and remain part of the team’s long-term plans.
The absence of key figures presents a significant challenge for the coaching staff in terms of squad cohesion and tactical implementation. At the same time, it opens the door for other players to step up, increasing internal competition and strengthening overall squad depth.
According to the schedule, Vietnam U19 will continue training at the national center from April 29 before traveling to Japan for an overseas training camp and friendly matches from May 18 to May 26. The team will then compete in the 2026 AFF U19 Championship, set to take place in Indonesia from June 1 to June 15. The official draw and match schedule, organized by the ASEAN Football Federation, will be held on May 8.
Despite current challenges, the team remains focused on achieving strong results at the regional level while laying a solid foundation for future continental ambitions.
VSN/RPT
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