Vietnam National Team Struggles with Injury Concerns Ahead of Match Against Indonesia in World Cup Qualifiers

The Vietnam national team faced a setback as mainstay striker Nguyen Cong Phuong was unable to train due to an ankle injury, jeopardizing his participation in the upcoming match against Indonesia in the 2026 World Cup Qualification. The Vietnamese media reported that Cong Phuong sustained the injury while playing for his club in the Japanese League.

Despite being initially selected to train with the Vietnam U23 team, Cong Phuong was sidelined during the training session on March 17, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial upcoming match. The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) confirmed that the striker’s ankle injury had resurfaced, a recurrence of the ailment he previously suffered while playing for Yokohama in Japan.

With Cong Phuong’s absence casting a shadow over the team’s preparations, Vietnam’s prospects against Indonesia in Group F of the World Cup Qualification tournament remain uncertain. The striker’s goal-scoring prowess and experience would have been valuable assets for his team, making his potential absence a significant blow to Vietnam’s ambitions in the competition.

As Vietnam navigates the challenges posed by injuries to key players, including Cong Phuong’s current setback, the team’s depth and resilience will be put to the test. With crucial matches on the horizon, including the highly anticipated clash against Indonesia, Vietnam will need to regroup quickly and adjust its strategies to overcome the obstacles in its path.

As the World Cup Qualification campaign intensifies, the Vietnamese national team will look to rally around its remaining players and make the necessary adjustments to compensate for the absence of key figures like Nguyen Cong Phuong. The team’s ability to adapt to adversity and find alternative sources of inspiration and leadership will be crucial in determining its success in the competition.