Vietnam Get Accustomed to Thai Pitch, Ready for ASEAN Cup 2026 Opener

The Vietnam national team held a training session at Chonburi Stadium in Thailand on the afternoon of July 23, as they acclimatised to the pitch ahead of their Group A opener against Timor-Leste in the ASEAN Cup 2026. The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:30 on July 24.

This opening fixture is keenly anticipated, with both sides carrying distinct goals and ambitions. For coach Kim Sang-sik and his players, it also serves as an important early test as they begin their quest to defend the championship title.

Despite light rain at Chonburi Stadium, the session proceeded without interruption, with players maintaining high intensity and enthusiasm throughout.

Naturalised striker Nguyễn Tài Lộc and goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm were absent from the pitch, remaining at the hotel for recovery work and are almost certain to miss the opener. Their absence prompted the coaching staff to finalise the 23-man matchday squad early, though this is not expected to pose a significant concern given the team's overall depth.

Despite the squad setbacks, head coach Kim Sang-sik struck an optimistic tone throughout the session, affirming in his pre-match remarks that the team had prepared thoroughly.

"We are delighted to participate in the tournament. The Vietnam national team is gearing up to deliver our best performance for both the opener and all subsequent matches. The entire team will fight confidently to secure a victory," said Kim.

Meanwhile, Timor-Leste head coach José Pedro revealed his ambition to adopt a Spanish-style playing philosophy ahead of the clash with Vietnam.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Pedro insisted that Timor-Leste are not in the tournament merely to make up the numbers, stressing that his side are targeting a positive start—even against the defending champions.

While acknowledging Vietnam's strength, Pedro singled out the threat posed by the hosts' naturalised players and their tactical cohesion.

Despite the considerable gap in quality, Timor-Leste have shown clear ambition heading into the tournament. Their opening encounter with Vietnam will therefore serve as a telling measure of the team's character and developmental progress.