Vietnam football team faces player suspensions and injuries

The Vietnam national football team faces significant roster challenges ahead of the 2027 Asian Cup due to player suspensions and injuries. Forward Nguyễn Đình Bắc will miss the first two matches of the tournament against the UAE and South Korea. This follows a two-match suspension and a $1,000 fine imposed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for a dangerous tackle during the U23 Asian Cup 2026 third-place match. Because he was not included in the squad for the match against Malaysia on March 31, the AFC did not count that period as part of his suspension.

In addition to the suspension, head coach Kim Sang-sik is managing several key injuries. Forward Nguyễn Xuân Son is recovering from a thigh muscle injury and is expected to require approximately eight weeks of rehabilitation. Other players sidelined include Đỗ Hoàng Hên, who is treating a torn abdominal muscle, and Nguyễn Tài Lộc, who is recovering from a ligament issue. Both players are currently undergoing treatment to return to fitness.