Vietnam is making major moves ahead of the 33rd SEA Games esports competition as the country officially revealed its men’s and women’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) rosters. The historic tournament begins December 13, 2025, at Sala Phra Kieo, Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, marking one of the most anticipated esports clashes in Southeast Asia.
The event runs December 13–17, bringing together the region’s elite mobile esports talent as medals and national pride are on the line. With rosters finalized and tournament brackets set, excitement continues to surge across Southeast Asian esports communities.
Vietnam Targets MLBB Gold at the 33rd SEA Games
Vietnam’s esports culture has grown rapidly over recent years, and the MLBB lineup reflects months of selection, intensive training, and competitive testing. Both the men’s and women’s rosters showcase rising stars with strong track records in regional tournaments.
Analysts expect Vietnam to be a strong contender after recent performances in international qualifiers and regional league events. With high discipline, mechanical skill, and adaptive strategy at the core of their gameplay, the Vietnamese squads enter Bangkok determined to fight for podium finishes.
The event highlights the increasing importance of esports as a medal sport and demonstrates the shifting landscape where digital competition stands alongside traditional athletics.
Tournament Format and Key Dates
The MLBB tournament at the SEA Games features an extensive competitive structure, starting with a group-stage format followed by high-pressure playoffs.
| Stage | Dates | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Dec 13–14 | Round-robin |
| Playoffs | Dec 15–16 | Single elimination, Bo5 |
| Grand Final | Dec 17 | Best-of-7 Championship |
The best-of-seven grand final format promises an intense and emotional showdown, ensuring only the most consistent and strategic roster will claim gold.
Southeast Asian Nations Competing for Esports Glory
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Men’s Teams | 10 teams from Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Myanmar, Laos, Malaysia, Cambodia, Timor-Leste |
| Women’s Teams | 9 national teams |
| Venue | Sala Phra Kieo, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok |
Regional powerhouses such as Philippines and Indonesia enter as favorites based on previous SEA Games results, while host Thailand holds home advantage. Vietnam’s participation signals confidence and rising dominance in the mobile gaming scene.
MLBB’s Expanded Role in Southeast Asian Esports
This marks the fourth inclusion of MLBB as an official SEA Games medal discipline, solidifying its position as one of the region’s top esports titles. With millions of active players from Southeast Asia, MLBB continues to propel the growth of competitive mobile gaming.
The SEA Games also highlights inclusivity, offering equal representation with separate men’s and women’s divisions. Female teams are expected to attract major viewership as esports continues to push representation forward.
A Defining Moment for Vietnam Esports
The Bangkok showdown represents a milestone for Vietnam as the nation seeks to strengthen its position in the regional esports hierarchy. A medal finish would boost national pride and inspire the next wave of professional players and grassroots esports organizations.
As the December 13 start date approaches, expectations rise for strategic battles, dramatic turnarounds, and historic victories.
