HLV Kim Sang Sik: 'The training camp in Incheon exceeded expectations'

The Vietnamese national team arrived back in the country on the afternoon of July 14, ending a nearly two-week training camp in Incheon, South Korea, with three wins, finalizing a crucial preparation period for the 2026 Asean Cup.

According to reports from kihoilbo, one day before the final friendly match against Gangwon FC, on the afternoon of July 13, at the main Munhak Stadium (Michuhol District, Incheon City), the Vietnamese national team players, dressed in orange, trained tirelessly under the scorching sun.

Following the instructions of coach Kim Sang Sik, the team continuously performed coordination drills, passing exercises, and pressing routines, while the coaching staff closely monitored each player's physical condition.

The Vietnamese national team trained in Incheon from July 2 to 14. Thanks to its convenient location near Incheon International Airport, a stadium system that has hosted numerous international tournaments, well-maintained natural grass pitches, and favorable conditions for friendly matches, the team enhanced cohesion in their play and match sharpness.

During this period, coach Kim Sang Sik and his players played friendlies against Siheung Citizen FC and Yongin FC to prepare for the upcoming tournament.

Coach Kim Sang Sik stated: "Incheon City provided a lot of support regarding training fields and infrastructure. We also chose Incheon because of the suitable schedule for friendly matches.

The quality of the pitches and the turf maintenance were excellent, allowing the players to fully focus on training. Playing against quality opponents also helped improve the team's cohesion in play and competitive ability. I am also very grateful for the thoughtful attention from Incheon City."

Vice President of the Vietnam Football Federation, Tran Anh Tu, also expressed satisfaction with the training conditions in Incheon.

He commented: "Incheon has the advantage of being close to the international airport, making travel very convenient. The training fields, turf quality, accommodation, and living conditions are all excellent. The players can focus entirely on their professional work without any obstacles in daily life. The weather in Incheon is also very suitable for training, even more favorable than in Vietnam."

Coach Kim Sang Sik added: "Two years ago, we trained in Gyeongju, but this training camp in Incheon exceeded expectations. If given the opportunity, I would very much like to return to Incheon. I hope the positive signals we received here will help the team achieve good results at the Hyundai Cup."

The Vietnamese national team will conclude the entire training program and leave South Korea on July 14. This training camp once again affirms Incheon's appeal as an international training hub, thanks to its proximity to the international airport, modern sports infrastructure, and high-quality training environment, attracting even foreign national teams.

After returning home, the Vietnamese national team will continue to finalize the last preparations before moving to Thai Nguyen on July 17 to play an international friendly against Myanmar on July 18. This is considered an important dress rehearsal, helping the coaching staff complete their final assessments of the squad and tactical plans ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Championship.

According to the schedule, on the morning of July 20, the Vietnamese national team will depart for Thailand to begin their journey to defend the 2026 ASEAN Championship title. Coach Kim Sang Sik and his players will play their opening match against Timor Leste on July 24 at Chonburi Stadium, aiming for a favorable start in their campaign to retain the regional title.