What is Coach Kim Sang-sik's strategy against Malaysia without calling up a defensive midfielder?

The Vietnam national team has finalized its 23-player squad for this training session, and notably, there is no true defensive midfielder included.

The defensive midfielder position is increasingly crucial in modern football. For many teams, it might even be the most important role. And Vietnam under Coach Kim Sang-sik is one such team.

The "Golden Star Warriors" won the 2024 AFF Cup with Doãn Ngọc Tân playing as a midfield sweeper. His ability to intercept, recover the ball, and support defense was key to the team's stable operation. However, Ngọc Tân's lack of optimal physical condition due to injury and health issues forced the coaching staff to seek alternatives.

Yet, in this call-up list, Coach Kim Sang-sik did not summon any proper defensive midfielder. Instead, he trusts midfielders focused on control and attack, such as Nguyễn Quang Hải, Nguyễn Hoàng Đức, or Lê Phạm Thành Long. These players possess good ball-holding and creative abilities but are not genuine "sweepers" in front of the defense.

This raises concerns that Vietnam's midfield may risk imbalance, especially when facing tough, fast-counterattacking opponents like Malaysia. In fact, Coach Kim Sang-sik considered calling up Nguyễn Đức Chiến but ultimately removed him due to inconsistent form at Ninh Bình Club.

Meanwhile, Võ Hoàng Minh Khoa not being given an opportunity is regrettable. This midfielder has been performing relatively well for Becamex TP.HCM and left a mark in previous national team appearances.

It is possible Coach Kim is deliberately breaking tactical norms. Not using a pure defensive midfielder could be a calculated move to surprise Malaysia. The inclusion of striker Nguyễn Xuân Son and the new naturalized player Đỗ Hoàng Hên shows the attack is significantly reinforced, suggesting the team may play more proactively offensively rather than defensively as before.

In midfield, the duo Quang Hải – Thành Long could be a ball-control option, similar to how they operate at Công An Hà Nội Club. Additionally, pulling a center-back up to play as a defensive midfielder, like Nguyễn Nhật Minh or Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh, might also be considered to enhance contesting ability.

Nevertheless, every choice carries risks. Lack of a true shield before the defense could make Vietnam vulnerable during transition phases. The coaching staff must have a plan to control the game and provide adequate cover.

The match against Malaysia, though now only for pride, remains an important test for Coach Kim Sang-sik's tactical experiments. Vietnam may not face pressure over the result, but surely still aims for victory, for honor and for the fans' trust.