Hot football news at noon on July 28: Vietnam national team awaits crucial FIFA decision

Malaysia faces Laos to continue their winning run, Vietnam national team waits for FIFA to confirm rivals in the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, Zidane retains Mbappe as French captain, along with interesting transfer updates involving Chelsea, Arsenal, and Juventus.

Malaysia determined to extend winning streak

Malaysia enters the match hosting Laos at 8:00 PM on July 28 with confidence after a 2-1 comeback win over Myanmar in their AFF Cup 2026 opener. Coach Tan Cheng Hoe believes this victory provides a major mental boost, while also praising the combination of veterans like Paulo Josue, Syafiq Ahmad, Mohamadou Sumareh and the young players. Despite having an unbeaten record against Laos with 7 wins and 2 draws in 9 meetings, the Malaysian tactician still demands his players not to be complacent. He specifically warned about Laos' quick counter-attacking ability and stressed that Malaysia must limit errors in ball distribution while making good use of chances to aim for a second consecutive victory in Group B.

China withdraws, Vietnam team awaits FIFA to finalize opponent

China has decided not to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 to focus on international friendlies in Chongqing in preparation for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and 2030 World Cup qualifiers. The withdrawal of the Chinese team leaves a vacant spot in the highest tier of the tournament, forcing FIFA to consider inviting additional guest teams or increasing the number of participants from 14 to 16.

This change could directly affect the group stage situation of the Vietnam national team, although coach Kim Sang-sik and his players are still guaranteed a place in the top tier. FIFA is expected to announce the list of participating teams soon before the draw for the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.

Scaloni still honored by Argentine fans

Although Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, coach Lionel Scaloni still receives special affection from fans. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside his home in Pujato to ask for autographs and photos, forcing security to assist in clearing the way whenever he goes out.

After the defeat, Scaloni also posted an open letter apologizing to the Argentine people for not being able to bring home another championship, but emphasized that the greatest value the team left behind is the fighting spirit, never-give-up attitude, and unity. These images show that the 48-year-old tactician still receives absolute support from fans despite the unfortunate result at the 2026 World Cup.

Zidane finalizes France captain

Although not yet officially unveiled as head coach of France, Zinedine Zidane has reportedly decided to keep Kylian Mbappe as captain, affirming absolute trust in the Real Madrid star. According to French media, the former Real Madrid coach will also reorganize the coaching staff, add more personnel, and give opportunities to many new faces, but still keep Mbappe as the centerpiece in the building plan for Les Bleus. The 27-year-old forward is in impressive form, having won the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals and 4 assists, while also becoming the first player to successfully defend the top scorer title in two consecutive World Cups. This is expected to be the foundation for France to aim for new successes under Zidane.

Transfer news

The summer transfer market continues to be lively with a series of notable deals. According to British media, Chelsea has reached a personal agreement with former Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck and is negotiating a fee with Brighton. Meanwhile, Juventus is close to loaning Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United with a buy option worth around 30 million pounds.

In Spain, Arsenal has reportedly opened talks to sign Vinicius Junior amid difficulties in his contract renewal with Real Madrid. Additionally, Barcelona and Manchester City are both pursuing young talent Eli Junior Kroupi, while Newcastle has extended a long-term contract with Harvey Barnes, ending all speculation about the future of the English winger.