Diego Giustozzi has made qualification for the 2028 FIFA Futsal World Cup a long-term objective for Vietnam. Speaking before the Kyrgyzstan friendlies on 2 November, the head coach said high-quality international matches would help develop a young squad, VFF reported.
The team have arrived in Bishkek for the overseas programme following two weeks of preparation. Giustozzi placed greater emphasis on building sporting foundations than on the FIFA ranking alone.
Competitive experience for a young squad
Vietnam's average age is about 23, according to the coach. Facing strong Asian opposition gives those players opportunities to test themselves in a demanding environment. Kyrgyzstan also provide a useful reference point: VFF's account notes that Vietnam lost to them in World Cup qualifying two years earlier, and the hosts now have home advantage.
Giustozzi described adapting his methods to the culture and physical characteristics of players in each country while retaining his tactical principles. He also stressed the winning mentality he seeks when selecting and developing the team.
Immediate tests before the longer campaign
Châu Đoàn Phát, who attended the press conference, viewed the friendlies as competitive learning opportunities, particularly for young players and first-time internationals. He hopes they will support both individual development and greater cohesion.
VFF and Bongdaplus list meetings with Kyrgyzstan on 3 and 5 November, followed by games against Russia on 8 and 10 November. The first match opens the competitive part of the trip, rather than deciding the World Cup objective itself. Qualification for 2028 remains a target. Readers can follow Vietnam national team fixtures for the national sides' forthcoming programme.