Vietnam's National Team Faces Major Obstacles at Asia's Top Tournament

The Vietnam women's national team confronts a tough challenge at the 2026 Women's Asian Cup as they must compete during noon hours in Australia, compelling Coach Mai Đức Chung’s team to make meticulous preparations for physical conditioning and acclimatization.

After winning the silver medal at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, the Vietnam women's team now faces a considerable challenge at the 2026 Women's Asian Cup finals, having to play at midday in Australia, which is seen as a major disadvantage regarding stamina and adaptation.

According to the published schedule, all matches for the Vietnam women's team will be held at Perth Rectangular Stadium. Notably, besides their opening game against India at 6 PM on March 4, 2026 (Vietnam time), Coach Mai Đức Chung’s team will have to play against Taiwan at 12 noon on March 7, before facing Japan at 4 PM on March 10. Playing at midday, under Australia's weather conditions and intense sunlight, forces the team to prepare carefully in terms of fitness, nutrition, and rotation tactics.

Ahead of Asia’s premier tournament, the Vietnam Football Federation has confirmed its continued trust in Coach Mai Đức Chung to lead the women's national team. This decision aims to ensure stability, continuity, and inheritance in coaching, especially as the 2026 Women's Asian Cup not only represents a continental conquest but also serves as a crucial qualifier for the 2027 Women's World Cup.

According to the preparation plan, in January 2026, the Vietnam women's team will gather and train in China, playing two friendly matches. Afterwards, the team will travel to Australia for the second training phase, expected to include another friendly before the official tournament begins.

Given the limited preparation time and a challenging match schedule, Coach Mai Đức Chung’s extensive experience and deep understanding of Vietnamese women's football are considered vital pillars to help the team aim to advance beyond the group stage and compete for a spot in the next round at the 2026 Women's Asian Cup.