The decision was made after a comprehensive assessment of the performance, fitness and level of tactical compliance of each player through the training and concentration stages in 2025.
In this final draw, 5 players said goodbye to the team including defenders Le Van Ha, Dinh Quang Kiet, midfielder Tran Thanh Trung, Nguyen Duc Viet and striker Bui Vi Hao.
These are all players who have made efforts in training, however, the coaching staff must make optimal choices to ensure squad balance and suitability with tactical requirements at the 33rd SEA Games.
In the team meeting before announcing the list, coach Kim Sang-sik presented the captain's armband to Khuat Van Khang, a midfielder born in 2003 who is considered a player with a lot of international experience through major tournaments such as the 2023 Asian Cup, 2024 U23 Asian Cup and 2024 ASEAN Cup.
Van Khang is also an important factor in helping U23 Vietnam win the 2025 U23 Southeast Asian Championship and win a ticket to the 2026 U23 Asian Cup finals. Supporting Khuat Van Khang is Vice President Nguyen Dinh Bac.
At the 33rd SEA Games, the U22 Vietnam team is in Group B with Malaysia and Laos. According to the adjusted match schedule, coach Kim Sang-sik and his team will play the opening match against Laos U22 on December 3, before facing Malaysia U22 on December 11, at Rajamangala Stadium (Bangkok).
The team will move from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok on December 1.
With a carefully selected squad, a young but experienced international squad and a long-term preparation process throughout 20242025, U22 Vietnam aims to compete with determination, gradually conquering the highest goal at the 33rd SEA Games.
