The Vietnam national football team may have the opportunity to face Japan in a friendly match on December 30, 2023, just before the Asian Cup 2027 finals. According to Japanese media, this match is expected to take place at Panasonic Stadium in Osaka, Japan. While the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has not yet confirmed the match, reports indicate that negotiations between the two football federations are moving forward positively.

The Japan Football Association (JFA) is seeking a suitable opponent for a friendly match, with the condition that the team must not be in the same group as Japan during the Asian Cup. If the match occurs, it will serve as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the Asian Championship, which will be held from January 7 to February 5, 2027, in Saudi Arabia.

In the upcoming Asian Cup, Japan is placed in Group F alongside Qatar, Thailand, and Indonesia, while Vietnam is in Group E with South Korea, the UAE, and Yemen. Japan aims to compete against Southeast Asian teams that have a similar playing style to Thailand and Indonesia, and Vietnam is one of the few teams in the region that meets this criterion.

For Vietnam, playing against a top Asian opponent like Japan is essential for mental and tactical preparation, especially before their challenging match against South Korea in the Asian Cup 2027. This potential friendly could provide both teams with valuable experience and insights.

Prior to this potential match, Vietnam will also compete in friendly matches against Taiwan and Kyrgyzstan in November, which have been confirmed by the VFF. These matches are part of the FIFA Days, designated periods when national teams can gather for international duties, as outlined by FIFA.