The Vietnamese team fell into Group E with South Korea, UAE and the winning team in the Lebanon/Yemen play-off match at the AFC Asian Cup 2027 finals, according to the draw just held in Saudi Arabia.
This is considered a difficult group for coach Kim Sang-sik's team when they have to face two top Asian opponents, South Korea and UAE.
After the draw, the Korean strategist highly appreciated the strength of the teams in the same group, but still believes that the Vietnamese team can aim for positive results if they prepare well.
All three teams we will face are very strong. However, if we are well prepared, we must believe that the Vietnamese team can achieve positive results against them.
It will not be easy, especially when facing the South Korean team. But if we build a good squad, have a solid mentality and high team spirit, I believe the Vietnamese team can go far," coach Kim Sang-sik shared.
Among the opponents in Group E, the South Korean team is considered the leading candidate for the top spot in the group. The Korean team currently owns many stars playing in Europe such as Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in or Kim Min-jae.
Meanwhile, the UAE is also an experienced opponent in the continental arena. Lebanon or Yemen are predicted to bring many difficulties thanks to their energetic and determined playing style.
Notably, this will be the first time coach Kim Sang-sik has led the Vietnamese team to face the Korean national team. Previously, he and U23 Vietnam defeated U23 Korea in the third-place match of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.
According to the tournament format, the top two teams in each group and 4 third-placed teams with the best results will qualify for the round of 16.
