Vietnam has confirmed its League of Legends roster for the Esports Nations Cup 2026, showcasing talent from the country's leading esports organizations. This lineup not only features six players from prominent teams such as GAM Esports, Team Secret Whales, and MVK Esports but also includes SofM, one of the most celebrated Vietnamese players in international esports history, known for his extensive experience in the League of Legends Pro League in China.
The head coach, Võ Naul Thành Luân, assumes a critical role in the formation of a unified team, blending players who frequently compete against one another in the domestic league. SofM’s intriguing position as both a co-owner of MVK Esports and an active competitor offers Vietnam a unique advantage, as he brings high-level competitive insight and experience that many Southeast Asian teams lack.
By pulling talent from three of the top organizations, Vietnam aims to present a robust team that can compete at both the Esports Nations Cup and the Asian Games, where esports will be featured as a medal event. The early announcement indicates a strategic approach focused on preparation, avoiding a rushed setup before the November event.
The Esports Nations Cup 2026 marks a significant milestone as it introduces a vast 32-team format, significantly greater than the usual number of participants in major international events like the League of Legends World Championship. This expanded participation is expected to enhance representation from regions that generally do not have the opportunity to compete on such a large stage.
As Vietnam prepares for this competition, it is essential to monitor how SofM juggles his dual responsibilities. Balancing the demands of team ownership with the mental focus required for high-level play is challenging, particularly for a seasoned player at the pinnacle of esports.