Expected lineup for Vietnam against Malaysia in the ASEAN Cup 2026 semi-finals

The first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 semi-final is a big challenge for the Vietnamese team when facing Malaysia away from home. Coach Kim Sang-sik is likely to maintain stability in defense. Changes may appear from midfield to attack.

Le Giang Patrik continues to be the number 1 choice in goal. This goalkeeper shows his level and solidity through matches.

Ahead of Le Giang will be central defenders Pham Xuan Manh (right), Nguyen Thanh Chung (center) and Bui Hoang Viet Anh (left). Meanwhile, Truong Tien Anh will guard the right wing corridor with the advantage of physical strength and attack support ability. On the left wing, Nguyen Van Vi is still a highly appreciated option thanks to his ability to push high to create pressure and coordinate with strikers.

The midfield may be the area most considered by coach Kim Sang-sik. Hoang Duc is almost certain to start, while Le Pham Thanh Long may continue to be chosen thanks to his ability to support both defense and ball deployment.

Nguyen Quang Hai is likely to have to wait for an opportunity from the bench if the coaching staff prioritizes balance for the away match.

In attack, Nguyen Xuan Son may return to the starting lineup after being calculated in terms of playing time in previous matches. The presence of this striker will help the Vietnamese team have more options to handle the ball in the penalty area and create direct pressure on the Malaysian defense.

It is not excluded that Nguyen Dinh Bac continues to start on the left wing. In recent matches, he has made a great contribution to the overall play, scoring many goals and knowing how to create breakthroughs thanks to speed.

The remaining position in the attack is the competition between Tai Loc and Hoang Hen. Who to choose will depend on how Mr. Kim Sang-sik wants to deploy the game against Malaysia.