Vietnam men's football team prepares for AFF Cup 2026 with youth-oriented squad

On November 15, 2026, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) officially announced the squad of 23 players called up for AFF Cup 2026, including 8 debutants for the national team. Head coach Nguyen Huu Thang's decision to select a young squad was considered a bold move, laying the foundation for Vietnam football's long-term human resource development strategy. According to VFF's announcement, the average age of this squad is only 23.5 years old, the lowest in the past 10 years. Notable names include goalkeeper Dang Thanh Hien, defender Tran Dinh Truong, midfielder Luong Xuan Truong, and striker Nguyen Cong Phuong. Specifically, coach Thang eliminated several experienced players to provide opportunities for young players to gain experience. In a press interview, head coach Nguyen Huu Thang stated: "I understand AFF Cup 2026 is an important tournament, but we cannot always rely on old faces. Vietnamese football needs to look further ahead, preparing for AFF Cup 2026 and Asian Cup 2026. I believe in the abilities of the young players." Coach Thang also emphasized that his attacking football philosophy would suit the young, dynamic squad eager to prove themselves. However, the squad rejuvenation decision also faced considerable doubts. Former star Nguyen Hong Son, who played at AFF Cup 2026, expressed concerns: "The pressure at the regional tournament is very high. The players still lack international experience, especially in crucial moments. I hope the coaching staff has appropriate backup plans." Tactically, Vietnam was drawn in Group B alongside UAE, Thailand, and Malaysia. According to analysts, this is a highly competitive group requiring the team to demonstrate consistency in all three group stage matches. The opening match against UAE on November 19 is considered the biggest challenge for coach Thang's young squad. Before the tournament, the team spent two weeks training at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center with rigorous training programs. The fitness team led by German expert Martin Forkel designed exercises to ensure the young players' fitness in the hot and humid weather conditions in Myanmar, the host country of AFF Cup 2026. The team is expected to depart for Myanmar on November 17 and play a final friendly match with a local club before the official tournament. Vietnamese fans' expectation is for the team to advance from the group stage, a goal considered achievable but challenging for the youngest squad in the tournament's history.