Breaking Vietnamese football news for August 3: Vietnam national team practices on Pakansari pitch; Becamex TPHCM's overseas recruit heads to Thai Nguyen
The Vietnam national team completed their training session at Pakansari Stadium (Bogor, Indonesia) on the afternoon of August 2, one day before facing hosts Indonesia in the fourth match of Group A at the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

Coach Kim Sang Sik and his players had only one hour to get used to the Pakansari pitch. Photo: VFF
Per the organizers' rules, Coach Kim Sang Sik's squad was allowed just 60 minutes on the official match field. The team maximized this time to warm up, adjust to the turf, and review tactical plans for a match that is considered a turning point in the race for a semifinal spot.
The training atmosphere was relaxed yet focused. Coach Kim Sang Sik constantly communicated with his assistants, closely monitored the formation execution, and gave instructions to his players during each drill. Striker Nguyen Xuan Son and his teammates showed confidence ahead of the clash with the home side.
If he takes the field, captain Nguyen Quang Hai will earn his 83rd cap for Vietnam, matching the record set by former striker Le Cong Vinh.
Vietnam futsal team displays its strength
The Vietnam futsal team continued their impressive run at the 2026 Continental Championship Friendly Tournament in Thailand by defeating New Zealand 4-1 in their second match. This gave them 4 points from two games, putting them in a strong position to compete for the title.

Vietnam futsal team has a chance to win the international friendly tournament in Thailand. Photo: Thai FA
After a 2-2 draw against Russia on the opening day, Coach Diego Giustozzi's side entered the match with great confidence against the Oceania representative.
Vietnam futsal quickly took control of the game and created many dangerous opportunities. Fast combinations and clinical finishing allowed them to score repeatedly and build a safe lead. Cong Dai shone with a brace, playing a key role in the convincing victory.
The coaching staff proactively gave many young players game time to gain international experience. New Zealand pulled one back late in the match, but Vietnam's futsal defense remained solid to secure the 4-1 win.
With one draw and one win after two matches, the Vietnam futsal team holds an advantage in the title race.
Former Becamex TPHCM foreign player joins Thai Nguyen FC
Thai Nguyen FC continues to bolster their squad ahead of the 2026/27 National First Division League after reaching an agreement with American striker Victor Mansaray.

Victor Mansaray arrives at Thai Nguyen FC. Photo: Personal Facebook
The 1997-born striker, standing at 1.85m, is no stranger to Vietnamese football fans.
Before joining Thai Nguyen FC, Victor Mansaray played for several V-League clubs including CA TP.HCM (formerly Ho Chi Minh City Club), Becamex Binh Duong, and Hong Linh Ha Tinh.
With many years of experience in Vietnam and good physical attributes and speed, Victor Mansaray is expected to become a key attacking force for Thai Nguyen FC as they aim for promotion in the new season.
Thai Nguyen FC has also expedited the recruitment of a series of new players to improve squad quality.
The names reportedly set to join the club include goalkeeper Phan Dinh Vu Hai and players Duong Van Hao, Nguyen Van Tam, Nguyen Xuan Kien, Le Van Dai, Cao Tran Hoang Hung, Nguyen Van Trang, Dinh Tuan Tai, and Ngo Xuan Son.