Prediction for Vietnam vs Myanmar (7:00 PM, July 18). Outcome forecast, probable starting XI, expert insights for the Vietnam vs Myanmar game within the international friendly framework, acting as preparation for the 2026 ASEAN Cup.
The Vietnam national team enters its final friendly before the 2026 ASEAN Cup with high confidence following a successful training camp in South Korea. Although the quality of friendly opponents was not exceptionally high, as they were all in the midst of their domestic league seasons, coach Kim Sang Sik's squad still achieved their goals in terms of both results and technical performance.
During three friendlies in South Korea, Vietnam scored eight goals and conceded only twice, signaling positive aspects in both attacking prowess and defensive solidity. More importantly, coach Kim Sang Sik made full use of this period to assess the squad, test formations, and refine their playing style ahead of the quest to defend the ASEAN Cup title.
Most players were given an opportunity to showcase their abilities. New faces expected to bring a fresh spark—such as Xuan Son, Hoang Hen, and Tai Loc—left their mark, while key figures like Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Van Hau, and Thanh Chung maintained consistent performances. This provided the South Korean strategist with additional personnel options and peace of mind before the region's most important tournament.

The Vietnam national team is preparing for its final rehearsal ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Cup. Photo: VFF
For Myanmar, this match also marks the notable debut of coach Jorn Andersen, who officially took charge of the team on July 9. With over 25 years of experience working in various football nations such as France, Austria, North Korea, and South Korea, Jorn Andersen is expected to bring a fresh breeze to Myanmar football.
However, the extremely short period since his appointment makes it difficult for him to implement significant tactical or stylistic changes. Myanmar will still largely rely on its familiar core, while the squad's quality is considered only average within the Southeast Asian region.
The head-to-head history heavily favors Vietnam. Over the years, Myanmar has rarely posed a serious challenge to the "Golden Star Warriors," whether in official tournaments or friendly matches.

Myanmar national team squad for the 2026 ASEAN Cup. Photo: MFF
Although this match serves only as preparation for the 2026 ASEAN Cup, it remains very important for coach Kim Sang Sik. It will be his final opportunity to test the optimal lineup and help the players refine their chemistry before embarking on the campaign to defend the championship.
Vietnam is likely to hold back some tactical moves to keep secrets for the official tournament. Nevertheless, with a superior squad quality, home advantage, and stable form, the Vietnamese team is still considered capable of securing a victory to build momentum ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.
Vietnam: Coach Kim Sang Sik has his strongest squad available. Key players such as Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Van Hau, Thanh Chung, and striker Xuan Son are all ready to take the field.
Myanmar: The visitors report no notable injuries or suspensions. New coach Jorn Andersen has a full squad for his first friendly match since taking over.
Vietnam (4-3-3): Le Giang - Xuan Manh, Viet Anh, Van Hau - Tien Anh, Hoang Duc, Quang Hai, Van Vi - Dinh Bac, Hoang Hen, Xuan Son.
Myanmar (4-3-3): Pyae Phyo Aung; Thet Hein Soe, Soe Moe Kyaw, Nanda Kyaw, Aung Hlaing Win; Kyaw Min Oo, Lwin Moe Aung, Myat Kaung Khant; Aung Naing Win, Than Paing, Maung Maung Lwin.
13/07/26: Gangwon 1-2 Vietnam
08/07/26: Yongin 1-2 Vietnam
05/07/26: Siheung Citizen 0-6 Vietnam
31/03/26: Vietnam 3-1 Malaysia
26/03/26: Vietnam 3-0 Bangladesh
09/06/26: Philippines 5-1 Myanmar
06/06/26: Myanmar 6-1 Guam
31/03/26: Pakistan 1-2 Myanmar
26/03/26: Afghanistan 1-2 Myanmar
14/10/25: Myanmar 0-3 Syria
21/12/24: Vietnam 5-0 Myanmar (ASEAN Cup)
03/01/23: Vietnam 3-0 Myanmar (AFF Cup)
20/11/18: Myanmar 0-0 Vietnam (AFF Cup)
20/11/16: Myanmar 1-2 Vietnam (AFF Cup)
20/11/12: Vietnam 1-1 Myanmar (AFF Cup)
This match holds more significance in terms of experimentation for coach Kim Sang Sik. The Vietnamese team is likely to make personnel adjustments throughout the 90 minutes to evaluate tactical options rather than going all out for an overwhelming victory.
However, given the considerable gap in squad quality, consistent form, and home advantage, Vietnam is still expected to control the game and secure a win over Myanmar. This will be an ideal stepping stone before embarking on the journey to defend the 2026 ASEAN Cup championship.