Hanoi, 24 June, 2025 – Coach Kim Sang Sik has officially added midfielder Nguyen Duc Viet to the U23 Vietnam squad as the team prepares for the upcoming AFF U23 Championship 2025, set to take place in Indonesia from July 15 to 31.
The announcement comes just days after the Korean tactician revealed his initial 35-man list on June 20. The inclusion of Duc Viet is a significant reinforcement for the midfield, especially considering his recent strong performances in the V.League 2.
Currently playing for Phu Dong Ninh Binh on loan from Hoang Anh Gia Lai, the 2004-born midfielder played a key role in helping his team win the 2024/25 V.League 2 title. Despite not being called up in the two earlier training camps this year, his consistent form has earned him a place in this critical third training phase.
Duc Viet is no stranger to the national youth teams. He featured prominently in Vietnam’s AFF U23 Championship 2023 campaign, appearing in all four matches and contributing to the team’s championship victory. He was also part of the squad at the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2024 under coach Hoang Anh Tuan.
His experience at both regional and continental tournaments will be valuable for Vietnam’s title defense. The midfield is already stacked with talented players such as Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Van Truong, Dinh Xuan Tien, Nguyen Thai Son, and Vietnamese-German prospect Le Viktor.
With Duc Viet’s arrival, coach Kim Sang Sik now has greater tactical flexibility and depth in the middle of the park as the team sets its sights on a third consecutive regional title.
The U23 squad is scheduled to gather in Vung Tau on June 26 and will train there until July 14 before flying to Indonesia. In the group stage, Vietnam will face U23 Laos on July 19 and U23 Cambodia on July 22. As reigning champions from both 2022 and 2023, Vietnam enters the competition with high expectations and a clear mission to retain their title.
The addition of Nguyen Duc Viet symbolizes Vietnam’s continued commitment to building a competitive squad capable of sustaining regional dominance and preparing for bigger continental challenges ahead.
Hong Phuc
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