The Vietnam U23 squad has set off to the UAE for training and practice matches, with the two friendlies against Qatar being particularly significant.
This morning (October 7), the Vietnam U23 team left for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to conduct training and international friendly matches. This is part of a thorough preparation plan aimed at two key goals: the 33rd SEA Games scheduled for December and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.
Before departure, Acting Head Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh shared: “The Vietnam U23 team is progressing according to the plan toward SEA Games 33 and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. In the near term, the team will undergo various training phases to test and refine the squad. For this October training camp, Head Coach Kim Sang Sik has given detailed instructions regarding tactics. The team needs to focus on passing accuracy, maintaining proper team spacing, and creating space behind the defensive line.”
During their stay in the UAE, the Vietnam U23 team will play two international friendly matches against the Qatar U23 team on October 9 and 13. According to Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh, this is a valuable opportunity for the team to be tested and assessed:
“Facing high-level opponents like Qatar U23 is extremely beneficial. These two matches will enable the coaching staff to better evaluate the team's potential, adaptability, and identify quality players to report back to Head Coach Kim Sang Sik, helping to prepare well for upcoming training camps.”
Midfielder Nguyễn Văn Trường shared his thoughts:“Recently, the Vietnam U23 team has been supported by the Vietnam Football Federation to participate in many tournaments and high-quality international training trips. The entire squad is preparing as best as possible for the two important upcoming targets: SEA Games 33 and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. We will do our utmost to meet the expectations of our fans.”
The training camp in the UAE is a crucial step in the comprehensive preparation plan developed by the Vietnam Football Federation for the U23 team, aimed at helping the young squad continue to develop, gain international experience, and strive for new achievements. This camp is also part of the football development cooperation program between the Vietnam Football Federation and Qatar Football Association, signed since 2023.