CaliToday (10/9/2025): A familiar wave of optimism and national pride is sweeping through Vietnam's football community, but the spotlight is now rapidly shifting. Fresh off the triumphant qualification of the U23 team for the AFC Asian Cup, the nation's attention is now firmly fixed on the senior squad—the "Golden Star Warriors"—as they prepare for their most significant challenge yet: the upcoming Third Round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
The recent success of the youth team, which showcased a new generation of skillful and confident players, has served as the perfect curtain-raiser, boosting morale and reaffirming the country's positive footballing trajectory. However, the true test of Vietnam's ambition to become a continental powerhouse lies with the senior team and their performance on Asia's biggest stage.
This upcoming campaign is a moment of immense importance for Vietnamese football. It marks the second consecutive time the team has reached this final stage of World Cup qualification, a feat that cements their status as a rising force in Asia. After their debut in this round during the 2022 qualifiers, reaching it again is no longer a surprise but a clear indicator of sustained progress and consistency.
The dream of reaching the World Cup finals feels more attainable than ever before. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams in 2026, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has been allocated eight direct qualification spots and one inter-confederation play-off spot. This expanded format provides a tangible opportunity for nations like Vietnam to break through and make a historic first appearance at the global showpiece.
However, the path is fraught with immense challenges. The Third Round will see Vietnam pitted against the giants of Asian football. They will face a grueling campaign of home-and-away matches against top-tier opponents such as Japan, South Korea, Iran, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. These are teams with deep World Cup pedigrees and rosters filled with players from Europe's top leagues.
To navigate this difficult journey, Vietnam's head coach will rely on a dynamic blend of seasoned veterans and emerging young talent. The core of the squad will feature experienced players who understand the pressure and tactical demands of this level from the 2022 campaign. Their leadership will be crucial in guiding a new crop of fearless youngsters, many of whom are graduating from the successful U23 setup, bringing fresh energy and technical flair to the team.
As the qualifiers draw near, the excitement across the country is palpable. However, this immense passion is often a double-edged sword. Vietnamese fans are renowned for their fervent support, but this fanaticism frequently boils over into excessive actions that draw international criticism. The phenomenon of "đi bão"—where hundreds of thousands of fans flood city streets on motorbikes after a victory, causing traffic gridlock for hours—is a common sight. These chaotic celebrations, sometimes after just a single group-stage win, are often perceived by international observers as ludicrous and over-the-top, painting a picture of a fanbase that lacks perspective. Furthermore, the illegal use of flares in stadiums has led to hefty fines from football federations and raised safety concerns.
Despite this controversial side to their support, the Golden Star Warriors carry the hopes of nearly 100 million fans. While the challenge on the pitch is monumental, the belief is strong that this team has the heart and talent to compete with the best in Asia. The ultimate hope is that their performance will not only make the nation proud but also channel the fans' immense energy in a way that earns respect, not ridicule, on the world stage.
