Coach Kim Sang Sik regrets Quang Hải's absence from the competition

Coach Kim Sang Sik is disappointed that Nguyễn Quang Hải cannot play because of a shoulder injury, yet he believes Hoàng Đức and Thành Long will step up effectively in the two games versus Nepal.

During the FIFA Days training camp in October 2025 preparing for the two Asian Cup 2027 final qualifying matches against Nepal, the Vietnam national team will be without midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải, who has not fully recovered from a shoulder injury. Head coach Kim Sang Sik expressed his regret about this situation while trusting the remaining players to carry the responsibility on the field.

Speaking to the press, Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized: “I am very sorry that Quang Hải has to miss out due to injury. He possesses excellent football skills, especially with his skillful left foot. Moreover, Quang Hải can execute free kicks and deliver creative passes that break through defenses.

Losing such an important player is truly unfortunate. However, I believe Hoàng Đức and Thành Long will perform well. I hope Quang Hải recovers soon to rejoin the team.”

On October 3rd, a day before the training camp began, Quang Hải underwent an MRI scan to assess the injury’s severity. The diagnosis indicated that the midfielder requires additional rest and treatment to ensure a full recovery.

Coach Kim Sang Sik agreed with the doctor’s recommendation and reported to the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) leadership, deciding not to call up Quang Hải for this training camp. Instead, they encouraged him to focus on treatment to come back stronger for upcoming matches.

Quang Hải’s absence was not unexpected, as he had previously missed international matches with Hanoi Police Club in the AFC Champions League Two and the 2025/26 Southeast Asian Club Championship. Additionally, he was unable to join the national team’s training camp during the FIFA Days in September.

The Vietnam national team officially gathered in Ho Chi Minh City on October 4th, with five days of preparation before the first leg against Nepal at 7:30 PM on October 9th at Gò Đậu Stadium, and the second leg at 7:30 PM on October 14th at Thống Nhất Stadium.

With thorough preparation and high fighting spirit, the Vietnam team aims to achieve favorable results in both matches, while hoping Quang Hải will recover soon to participate in important upcoming games.