Vietnam national football team trains ahead of SEA Games 2026

Ho Chi Minh City, August 15, 2026 — Vietnam's national football team has officially entered an intensive training phase to prepare for the 18th SEA Games, scheduled to be held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Head coach Nguyen Van Thin has summoned 28 players from across the country for a three-week training camp at Thong Nhat Stadium. This is considered the most important gathering of the year, marking the Vietnam Football Federation's (VFF) effort to elevate the national team's performance after a prolonged period of limited international competition. According to Coach Thin, the technical staff is placing particular emphasis on building a balanced attacking style that combines individual speed with team coordination. "We have thoroughly studied the playing styles of strong teams in the region such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Our goal is to build a squad capable of competing at the highest possible level," the head coach stated at a press conference. Among the summoned players, forward Nguyen Huu Thang of Thể Công Club is regarded as the most crucial attacking asset. The 24-year-old player scored 12 goals in the 2026 domestic season and is expected to be the main striking force for the national team. Additionally, VFF announced that the team will play two friendly matches against strong domestic clubs before departing for Thailand. The first match is scheduled for August 25 against Army FC, the club with the most impressive form this season. The 2026 SEA Games will officially open on November 25. Men's football is one of the most anticipated sports at the Games, drawing significant attention from fans across Southeast Asia. According to the plan, Vietnam will finalize their squad of 18 players on October 1 and depart for Thailand on November 15 to acclimatize to local conditions and facilities.