Vietnamese defender Nguyễn Thành Chung has faced an unexpected health issue just days before the national team’s opening match in the AFF Cup 2026. The match against Timor Leste is scheduled for July 24 in Chonburi, Thailand.

Chung, who is regarded as one of the top defenders in the tournament, suffered a burn on his face after being stung by a type of ant known for its venomous bite. As a result, he has been applying a special ointment to treat the affected area. Despite this setback, he has been able to train with the team, although the discomfort from the burn may affect his performance, particularly in aerial duels.

The medical staff has indicated that Chung will need to continue applying the treatment for the next 2-3 days. Whether he will participate in the match against Timor Leste will ultimately be decided by head coach Kim Sang Sik.

In the most recent friendly match on July 18 against Myanmar, Chung played a crucial role in defense, showcasing his skills and intelligence on the field. His height of 1.82 meters gives him an advantage in defensive situations. Should Chung be unable to play, Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh is expected to step in as a central defender. Việt Anh, who stands at 1.84 meters, shares similar defensive skills and has been effective in both defensive and attacking roles.