Vietnam team is at risk of losing key players when playing at Thong Nhat Stadium.

(NLDO) - Before the rematch against Nepal on October 14, the Vietnamese team faces the risk of losing important pillars in midfield and defense due to injuries.

Vietnam's 3-1 victory over Nepal in the third match of Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on October 9 did not satisfy fans. Against a team 62 places lower in the FIFA rankings, coach Kim Sang-sik's team missed many scoring opportunities and also conceded goals.

Hoang Duc leaves open the possibility of playing in the rematch against Nepal

After a tough match, key players Hoang Duc and Tien Dung suffered injuries and had to practice separately in preparation for the rematch against Nepal at Thong Nhat Stadium (HCMC) on October 14.

In the absence of Nguyen Quang Hai, midfielder "conductor" Hoang Duc is an important link in the tactical system of the Vietnamese team. With skillful individual techniques, a keen eye for passing and a tricky shot, Hoang Duc was a standout factor in the victory of the Vietnamese team against Nepal.

Therefore, Hoang Duc leaving the possibility of playing in the second leg open will make it difficult for coach Kim Sang-sik to arrange the squad. The Korean strategist has many talented young midfielders at his disposal, but few are of the caliber to replace Hoang Duc in the midfield.

Center back Nhat Minh (left) has the opportunity to play for the Vietnamese national team alongside his senior Duy Manh.

Hoang Duc said: "I have returned to training but I probably have to wait for the medical team's examination results to know exactly my physical condition and ability to play against Nepal on October 14."

If Hoang Duc is absent, Duc Chien and Van Khang will likely be in the starting lineup of the Vietnam team. In addition, Coach Kim can also pull Dinh Bac back to the midfield to do the task of creating for the front line.

Meanwhile, Bui Tien Dung's position has many qualified candidates to replace him. Besides Duc Chien, U23 central defenders such as Nhat Minh and Hieu Minh are ready to play to fill in the defensive wall of 3 central defenders or 4 defenders....

Although this central defender duo has little experience playing for the national team, they have just made great contributions to helping U23 Vietnam win the 2025 Southeast Asian Championship and qualify for the 2026 U23 Asian Championship.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/tuyen-viet-nam-nguy-co-mat-tru-cot-khi-thi-dau-o-san-thong-nhat-196251013161654695.htm