Chinese media panic over Vietnam's 1.95m 'monster'

09/11/2025 15:43:00 pandatv

Chinese media show worry about the towering stature of young defender Đinh Quang Kiệt, considered the fresh “aerial asset” for Vietnam U22 under coach Kim Sang-sik during the Panda Cup 2025.

Page 163 (China) recently published an article with a striking headline: “Taller than China’s national team, the new U22 Vietnam center-back stands at 1.95m and could challenge Xiang Yuwang, Wang Yudong, and Kuai Jiwen.” The article focuses on Vietnam U22’s squad preparing for the Panda Cup 2025, highlighting the emergence of the “defensive tower” Đinh Quang Kiệt - an 18-year-old playerfrom HAGL club.

According to this source, coach Kim Sang-sik’s team is meticulously preparing for the tournament, where they will face U22 China, U22 Uzbekistan, and U22 South Korea in Chengdu. The host nation’s media praise the physical development of Vietnam’s young players, especially the presence of center-backs taller than 1.90m, a rarity in previous generations.

Đinh Quang Kiệt was once a key player for Vietnam U17 and now represents hope in the U22 defense

Page 163 comments: “Vietnam U22 can capitalize on Đinh Quang Kiệt’s height advantage to apply pressure during set pieces. China U22’s main defenders like Peng Xiao, Liu Haofan, and Zhang Yixuan are all under 1.90m, making them weaker in aerial duels.” The article also points out that even Chinese forwards such as Zhu Pengyu and Liu Chengyu struggle against Vietnam’s defense in aerial battles.

Đinh Quang Kiệt was a cornerstone of Vietnam U17 before switching from defensive midfielder to center-back. His ideal height and strong heading ability quickly earned him the reputation of being a “golden shield” for Vietnam’s youth teams. Chinese media believe this 2007-born player might become a “strategic weapon” for Vietnam not only at the Panda Cup but also at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.

Page 163 further analyzes how coach Kim Sang-sik is shaping the team. He is praised for building a disciplined squad that balances technical skill and physical fitness. “The arrival of Kim Sang-sik along with legendary goalkeeper Lee Woon-jae in the coaching staff is bringing a new look to Vietnam U22. This is a young team but well-organized with a modern style,” the article states.

The HAGL player is regarded as the new “strategic weapon” for Vietnam U22 under coach Kim Sang-sik

Besides Đinh Quang Kiệt, Vietnam U22 also includes two naturalized players of Russian origin, Viktor Lê and Vadim Nguyễn, adding diversity in physique and playing style. Chinese experts believe that if Vietnam fully exploits their physical strength and aerial play, they could cause surprises against strong teams at the Panda Cup.

In conclusion, page 163 acknowledges: “The emergence of ‘defensive towers’ like Đinh Quang Kiệt is bringing Vietnam U22 closer to the level of Asia’s top teams. This will be a team that China U22 must watch out for.”

The special attention from Chinese media highlights the growing influence of Vietnamese youth football. If development continues in the right direction, Đinh Quang Kiệt could become a new icon for the next generation of Vietnamese players.

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