Coach Kim Sang Sik surprises with Xuân Son and Văn Hậu in the match against Bangladesh

Two highly anticipated names are not in the starting lineup, creating an interesting point about the Vietnamese national team's formation in the friendly match against Bangladesh on March 26.

On March 26 afternoon, Coach Kim Sang Sik announced the starting lineup for the Vietnamese national team in the friendly match against Bangladesh at Hàng Đẫy Stadium at 7 PM. This list quickly drew attention as many familiar faces were not in the main lineup, especially players whom fans eagerly awaited to return.

The match is seen as an important warm-up before the final Group F encounter with Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. However, instead of deploying the strongest lineup, the Korean coach made notable personnel adjustments, highlighted by the fact that both Nguyễn Xuân Son and Đoàn Văn Hậu are not starting.

Nguyễn Xuân Son, the naturalized striker with high expectations, is only named on the substitute bench. Previously, he had a problem with his left thigh and had to train separately during preparation days, casting doubt on his playing availability. Not reaching optimal physical condition might be the reason the coaching staff opted for a safe choice.

Meanwhile, Đoàn Văn Hậu continues to wait for an opportunity to play for the national team after nearly three years of absence. Despite returning to training and being on the list, the 1999-born defender still hasn't been granted a starting spot. This shows the caution of Coach Kim Sang Sik towards players returning after a long period.

On the attacking line, Đỗ Hoàng Hên is the only naturalized player given an opportunity from the start. He plays on the left wing, supporting Phạm Tuấn Hải as the highest forward, while Hai Long handles the right wing. These are all players from Hanoi FC, forming a familiar attacking trio.

In the defense, goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm is chosen to start instead of Nguyễn Filip. The trio of central defenders includes Xuân Mạnh, Duy Mạnh, and Ngọc Bảo, with Ngọc Bảo being a new recruit under Coach Kim Sang Sik. The wings are handled by Văn Vĩ and Tiến Anh, while the midfield combines Hoàng Đức and Quang Hải.

The decision to keep Xuân Son and Văn Hậu as substitutes not only reflects issues of physical condition and performance, but also shows the cautious approach of the coaching staff. In the context of the upcoming match against Malaysia, conserving strength and balancing the squad might be the top priority for the Vietnamese team.