Fighting hard, Vietnam U23 narrowly lost to Qatar U23

Vietnam U23 concluded their UAE training stint with a 2-3 loss to Qatar.

At 10:00 PM on October 13th Vietnam time, Vietnam U23 played their second friendly match against Qatar U23 at the training ground of Club 321. The most notable point was that acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh changed the entire starting lineup compared to the previous game.

To maximize playing opportunities and test tactical options, Vietnam U23 made significant changes. Players who mostly sat on the bench in the previous match such as goalkeeper Nguyen Tan, defenders Nam Hai and Tuan Phong, midfielders Thanh Trung and captain Thai Son, along with forward Van Thuan, were all given starting roles.

Due to using a completely new lineup lacking cohesion, Vietnam U23 started awkwardly, conceding two goals in the first half. However, before halftime, Van Thuan managed to score and reduce the deficit to 1-2.

In the second half, Vietnam U23 controlled the game much better, especially after bringing on familiar players like Van Truong, Ly Duc, Quoc Viet, Le Viktor, and Anh Quan. This stronger lineup clearly dominated, reminding fans of the style from the first friendly.

After many attacking efforts, the equalizer to 2-2 came from Quoc Viet. Unfortunately, after leveling the score, Vietnam U23 conceded again in the 78th minute and couldn’t find another equalizer. The match ended with Vietnam U23 losing 2-3.

What time and channel to watch Vietnam U23 vs Qatar U23 live?

• Match time: 10:00 PM on October 13, 2025.
• Venue: 321Sports Stadium, UAE.
• Tournament: International friendly
• Broadcast channel: To be updated.

Key information before the Vietnam U23 vs Qatar U23 match

Vietnam U23 will face Qatar U23 again in an October international friendly, just days after a narrow 0-1 loss at 321Sports Stadium. This match is seen as a chance to avenge the previous defeat and serves as an important test for acting coach Dinh Hong Vinh's team ahead of SEA Games 33 and the 2026 U23 Asian Championship.

Despite the first leg loss, Vietnam U23 earned praise for their proactive play, high pressing, and smooth midfield coordination. Notably, that lineup was missing 8 key players promoted to the senior national team, yet their spirit and cohesion showed positive signs. In this rematch, Coach Dinh Hong Vinh is expected to rotate the squad again to assess form and experiment with personnel for upcoming major tournaments.

The group of overseas Vietnamese players like Vadim Nguyen and Viktor Le continue to carry high expectations. Vadim notably provided a clever through ball allowing Van Thuan a one-on-one chance with the goalkeeper in the previous match.

On Qatar U23’s side, the West Asian team still demonstrates their class with strong fitness, intense pressing, and quick transitions. However, after gaining practical experience, Vietnam U23 is expected to start more confidently, handle pressure better, and capitalize on chances more effectively. This match promises to be a valuable trial, helping the "Golden Star Warriors" refine their squad and build positive momentum for the journey ahead.

Expected lineups for Vietnam U23 vs Qatar U23

• Vietnam U23:Cao Van Binh - Vo Anh Quan, Pham Ly Duc, Dinh Quang Kiet, Nguyen Bao Long - Nguyen Thai Son, Van Truong - Viktor Le, Vadim Nguyen, Le Van Thuan - Nguyen Quoc Viet.
• Qatar U23:Youssef Abdulla, Mohammed Aiash, Eldeen Hassan, Al Hussain, Al Hadrami, Abdullah Al Yazidi, Mostafa Meshaal, Jassem Gaber, Khaled Ali, Mahdi Salem, Al Rawi.