The road to the AFC Asian Cup 2026 continues as Nepal lock horns with regional powerhouse Vietnam in a two-legged clash that will decide their fate in the group stage. Both sides are desperate for points — Vietnam to stay alive in the qualification race, and Nepal to prove they can compete among Asia’s rising football nations.
This is a battle of pride, form, and footballing belief — and all eyes from South Asia and Southeast Asia will be glued to this highly anticipated matchup.
⚽ Match Context
Vietnam currently sits 2nd in Group F, trailing behind Malaysia after one win and one defeat. Nepal, on the other hand, has suffered two losses in their opening fixtures and now faces a do-or-die situation to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Interestingly, due to stadium and logistical issues in Kathmandu, Nepal has designated Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City as their “home” ground for the second leg. This means Vietnam effectively enjoys home advantage in both legs, a rare and crucial factor heading into these matches.
🔍 Recent Form Guide
Vietnam’s recent results:
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✅ Vietnam 5–0 Laos – Clinical performance and dominant possession.
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❌ Malaysia 4–0 Vietnam – A wake-up call exposing defensive gaps.
Nepal’s recent results:
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❌ Laos 2–1 Nepal – Missed chances cost them dearly.
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❌ Malaysia 2–0 Nepal – Displayed fighting spirit but lacked finishing.
Both teams come into this tie with something to prove — Vietnam looking to regain consistency, Nepal searching for their first points of the campaign.
⚔️ Head-to-Head Record
Surprisingly, Nepal and Vietnam have never met before in an official senior men’s international match.
This two-legged qualifier will therefore mark their third-ever encounter — making it another chapter in both nations’ football history after 2003.
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Matches Played: 2
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Wins (Vietnam): 2
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Wins (Nepal): 0
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Draws: 0
Back in 2003 Nepal and vietnam were placed under a same group E of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, where both faced each other twice in Incheon South Korea. Nepal lost the first natches to vietnam by 5-0 and the second match by 2-0.
Expect plenty of curiosity and excitement as two nations with contrasting footballing styles meet for the very first time.
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🧠 Tactical Preview
Vietnam:
Known for their speed, pressing, and compact build-up play, Vietnam under their current setup will likely dominate possession. The midfield pairing and attacking wingers are key to unlocking Nepal’s defence. If they start aggressively, an early goal could break the game open.
Nepal:
The Gorkhalis will aim to stay compact, defend in numbers, and hit on the counter. The focus will be on maintaining discipline, reducing unforced errors, and capitalizing on set pieces. Nepal’s young midfield core must stay composed under Vietnam’s intense pressure.
🔑 Key Players to Watch
Vietnam:
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Nguyen Quang Hai – The midfield magician capable of unlocking any defence.
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Pham Tuan Hai – In strong form, clinical in front of goal.
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Do Hung Dung – The veteran leader who controls the tempo.
Nepal:
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Anjan Bista – Nepal’s all-time top scorer and constant threat up front.
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Rohit Chand – Commanding presence in defence.
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Aayush Ghalan – Youthful energy and pace on the wings.
📊 Prediction & Scoreline
With both games being played in Vietnam, the odds clearly favour the home side. Nepal’s grit and determination will test the hosts, but Vietnam’s quality and depth are expected to shine through.
Predicted Score:
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First Leg: Vietnam 3–0 Nepal
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Second Leg: Vietnam 2–0 Nepal
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Aggregate: Vietnam wins 5–0
Still, football is full of surprises — and Nepal will look to channel the same fighting spirit that stunned Kuwait and Yemen in previous campaigns.
📣 Final Thoughts
The Nepal vs Vietnam clash is more than just another qualifier — it’s a meeting of two footballing cultures, one aiming to dominate Asia and the other fighting to rise from adversity. Whether it’s Vietnam’s attacking flair or Nepal’s underdog determination, fans can expect 90 minutes of pure passion and drama.
Stay tuned for live updates, highlights, and post-match reactions from both legs of the AFC Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers right here!
Nepal vs Vietnam Live – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What time does Nepal vs Vietnam match start?
The first leg will kick off at 7:00 PM Vietnam Time (5:45 PM Nepal Time) on October 9, 2025, at Binh Duong Stadium.
The second leg, which is Nepal’s designated home match, will be played on October 14, 2025, at Thong Nhat Stadium, Ho Chi Minh City, also starting at 7:00 PM local time (5:45 PM Nepal Time).
2. Where can I watch Nepal vs Vietnam live on TV in Nepal?
Fans in Nepal can watch the live broadcast on:
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Kantipur TV HD
Both networks are expected to telecast the match live across the country.
3. How can I watch the match online or on mobile?
The match will be available for streaming through:
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NetTV Nepal (Kantipur TV or AP1 channels)
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DishHome GO app
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HamroTV app
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AFC’s Official YouTube Channel (depending on regional availability)
For instant updates, live commentary, and scorecards, you can also follow Nepali Football Updates on Facebook and YouTube.
4. Will the match be shown outside Nepal?
Yes. Viewers outside Nepal can watch the game on AFC’s Official YouTube Channel or through regional broadcasters such as VTV in Vietnam.
5. Where are the matches being played?
Both legs are being hosted in Vietnam due to stadium issues in Nepal:
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First Leg: Binh Duong Stadium, Vietnam
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Second Leg (Nepal’s home leg): Thong Nhat Stadium, Ho Chi Minh City
6. What is the head-to-head record between Nepal and Vietnam?
This is the first-ever official senior international meeting between Nepal and Vietnam. The two nations have not faced each other previously in competitive or friendly fixtures.
7. Who are the key players to watch in this match?
Nepal: Anjan Bista,Rohit Chand, Aayush Ghalan
Vietnam: Nguyen Quang Hai, Pham Tuan Hai, Do Hung Dung
These players are expected to play major roles in determining the outcome.
8. Where can I get live updates and highlights?
You can follow Nepali Football Updates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for:
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Live score commentary
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Post-match highlights
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Match-day analysis and reactions
9. Who is likely to win Nepal vs Vietnam?
Based on recent form and home advantage, Vietnam are the favorites. However, Nepal has a history of surprising stronger teams, making this fixture one to watch closely.