A sleepless night for Vietnamese football fans

Coach Kim Sang Sik's team played bravely and excellently, defeating U23 UAE 3-2 after 120 minutes in the quarterfinals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup. The goals for U23 Vietnam were scored by Nguyễn Lê Phát (39'), Nguyễn Đình Bắc (62'), and Phạm Minh Phúc (101').

This victory secures U23 Vietnam a place in the semifinals. Our opponent will be the winner of the quarterfinal match between U23 Uzbekistan and U23 China, which will take place at 6:30 PM today (January 17).

Mr. Nguyễn Hải Hậu (Long Biên, Hanoi) said: “The young players are currently showing real class by being able to play offensively, even dominating strong teams in the continent. The progress in their playing style and the players’ composure have caused many surprises in this year's tournament. U23 Vietnam is in very stable form, and I believe we will overcome the semifinal to reach the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026.”

Regarding U23 Vietnam's performance prediction this year, Mr. Nguyễn Thiện Hoàng (Từ Liêm, Hanoi) is confident that the players will continue to perform at their current level to secure a spot in the tournament final. “It’s undeniable that the young players have shown great resilience. The current playing style of the U23 team allows football fans to fully trust in the best possible outcome. If we can win the championship, it will be the greatest gift for Vietnamese football lovers,” Mr. Hoàng affirmed.

It will not be easy for U23 Vietnam to win if they face U23 Uzbekistan in the semifinals, as the Central Asian team is considered a top contender for the title. U23 Uzbekistan has a very strong squad, while U23 Vietnam has never beaten this team in six previous encounters (three draws and three losses).

The two semifinals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup will take place on the afternoon of January 20, Vietnam time.