Nguyễn Hoàng Đức, the captain of the Vietnam national football team, is looking forward to the decisive match against Pakistan in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. The team resumed training on October 1 at the Madya Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, as they prepare for this critical encounter in the third round of Group B.

Currently, the squad has been reduced to 21 players due to injuries and personal issues affecting some team members. Notably, Nguyễn Xuân Son is sidelined with an injury, and Phạm Gia Hưng had to return home due to a family bereavement.

Hoàng Đức, who had been recovering from a groin injury sustained during the ASEAN Cup final on August 26, missed the first three matches of the V-League 2026-2027 season. After over three weeks of treatment and rehabilitation, he has returned to full training and appears fit to take on Pakistan.

In the absence of Nguyễn Quang Hải, Hoàng Đức has stepped up as captain for the tournament. Although he was limited to a second-half appearance in the match against Thailand, he showed promising signs of recovery during training and is likely to start against Pakistan on October 2.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Lê Giang Patrik has also returned to practice after a brief hiatus due to an elbow injury. Coach Kim Sang-sik is monitoring his condition closely before deciding whether to start him or Trần Trung Kiên in goal against Pakistan.

Other players, such as Nguyễn Hai Long and Nguyễn Đình Bắc, are also under observation for minor injuries but have been participating in training. The team is aware of the stakes; a draw against Pakistan would secure their advancement to the next round, while a loss could lead to an early exit from the tournament.

As the team prepares for this crucial match, the atmosphere remains positive, with players eager to perform and secure their place in the competition.