Kuala Lumpur, 15 August 2026 – On the afternoon of August 15, the Vietnam national team held a light training session at Kuala Lumpur Stadium, giving the players an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the pitch ahead of their crucial ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinal first leg against Malaysia.
The session formed part of head coach Kim Sang-sik’s final preparations for the highly anticipated encounter, which will take place on the evening of August 16.
Rather than conducting an intense workout, the coaching staff focused primarily on helping the players adjust to the playing surface and stadium conditions. The squad carried out light physical exercises, ball work and tactical drills designed to keep the players sharp while avoiding unnecessary fatigue less than 24 hours before kickoff.
Adapting to the pitch has been one of Vietnam’s key priorities since arriving in Kuala Lumpur. The playing surface differs from those commonly used at many stadiums in Vietnam, making the official familiarization session particularly valuable for the players.
Vietnam enter the semifinal after finishing the group stage unbeaten and securing top spot in their group. However, Kim and his coaching staff are fully aware that knockout football presents a different challenge, particularly against a Malaysia side determined to capitalize on home advantage.
The atmosphere within the Vietnamese camp remains positive, with the squad fully focused on securing a favorable result before returning to Hanoi for the second leg.
Facing Malaysia away from home will also test Vietnam’s composure, especially with the hosts expected to receive strong support from their home crowd. Kim’s players will therefore need to remain disciplined, manage the tempo effectively and minimize mistakes throughout the match.
Following Saturday’s final familiarization session, Vietnam have completed the main stages of their preparation and are ready for one of their biggest tests of the tournament.
The ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinal first leg between Malaysia and Vietnam will take place on the evening of August 16 in Kuala Lumpur, with both teams looking to gain an important advantage before the decisive return leg in Hanoi on August 19.
VSN/RPT
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