Vietnamese women’s football refocuses on Asian Cup, World Cup qualification after SEA Games

The team, coached by Mai Duc Chung, are expected to maintain continuity after the SEA Games in Thailand, where Vietnam lost the gold medal in the final against the Philippines. 

The Asian Cup finals, scheduled for March 1–21, 2026 in Australia, will serve as the main qualifying tournament for the Women's World Cup in Brazil the following year.

Vietnam made its World Cup debut in 2023 in New Zealand and are seeking a second consecutive appearance in 2027.

The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) said the team will hold overseas training camps ahead of the Asian Cup tournament. 

Plans include a training camp in China in February with two friendly matches, followed by a second phase in Australia to adapt to local conditions, with an additional friendly match expected before the finals begin.

Vietnam have been drawn into Group C of the Asian Cup and will play their group matches in Perth. 

The team are scheduled to face Taiwan, one of their main competitors for advancement, on March 7 in a midday kick-off, making physical preparation a key focus, VFF officials said.

Chung said the team would prioritize fitness and stability as they prepare for the tournament.

Under the tournament format, the four quarterfinal winners will qualify directly for the 2027 World Cup. 

The four quarterfinal losers will enter play-off matches to compete for two additional World Cup berths, with further opportunities available through an intercontinental play-off.

Vietnam will also take on Japan and India at the Asian Cup finals. 

Japan, ranked eighth in the world, are widely expected to top the group.

Vietnam are ranked 36th, Taiwan 40th, and India 67th, according to FIFA rankings.

Squad availability remains a concern. 

Central defender Chuong Thi Kieu missed the SEA Games with a knee injury, while midfielders Duong Thi Van and Nguyen Thi Van were also sidelined. 

Their fitness and form ahead of the Asian Cup have not been confirmed.

Vietnam rely on a defensive system featuring three central defenders and a central midfield pairing. 

Several players used in midfield at the SEA Games were considered temporary solutions in the absence of injured regulars.

The team also face an aging squad. 

Twelve of the 23 players who competed at the SEA Games are aged 30 or older. 

Veteran forwards Huynh Nhu and Pham Hai Yen will both be a year older by the time of the Asian Cup, prompting discussions within the coaching staff about reinforcing attacking options.