Coach Kim Sang-sik: U23 Vietnam is ready for the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup semifinal match

Securing a spot in the semifinals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup marks the second time U23 Vietnam has reached the top 4 teams in Asia. Previously, at Changzhou in 2018, the U23 Vietnam team impressively advanced past the semifinals to the final, creating a historic milestone.

In the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup quarterfinal, after a thrilling 120-minute match and a 3-2 victory over U23 UAE, Coach Kim Sang-sik expressed pride in his players’ fighting spirit and progress, affirming that U23 Vietnam is fully capable of competing at the continental level.

The Korean strategist stated: “I am very proud of the U23 Vietnam players. They gave their all throughout the 120 minutes and earned a well-deserved win. Thanks to the Vietnamese fans who were present in the stadium and those supporting from home.”

The Korean coach emphasized that the win over U23 UAE further demonstrated U23 Vietnam’s high level at the continental stage: “The U23 Vietnam team is completely able to compete at the Asian level.”

He also explained the pivotal personnel changes: “I brought Anh Quân on in the second half to strengthen the wing defense, limiting the opponent’s crosses, and he fulfilled his role well.

Noticing some UAE players, especially on the wings, were tiring, I introduced faster and stronger players to capitalize on the opportunity. This strategy proved effective.”

According to Coach Kim Sang-sik, U23 Vietnam’s success is the result of sacrifice and persistent effort: “Our presence in the semifinals is thanks to the sweat, hard work, and dedication of the entire team. In the next match, we will continue to prepare thoroughly to face new challenges and surpass our own limits.”

Looking ahead to the semifinals, Coach Kim Sang-sik said the coaching staff will carefully observe and analyze the quarterfinal between U23 Uzbekistan and U23 China to identify their opponent: “We will keep embracing challenges, push beyond limits, and I believe U23 Vietnam has a chance to win and advance to the final.”

The Korean coach’s confidence is not only based on current results but also on the solid physical and mental foundation of the young players. With the goal of recreating history, the Golden Star warriors are ready for the toughest challenges on their journey to the continental summit.

After the quarterfinal, U23 Vietnam received great news as no players suffered injuries or suspensions for the semifinal.

According to the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup bracket, U23 Vietnam will face the winner of the quarterfinal match between U23 China and Uzbekistan.

In theory, U23 Uzbekistan is rated higher than China. Nevertheless, surprises can happen because U23 China is not a weak side.

If they meet U23 Uzbekistan, it will be a match reminiscent of the 2018 AFC U23 Asian Cup final when U23 Vietnam lost 0-1 after 120 minutes and watched their opponent lift the trophy.

If facing U23 China, it will also be an eagerly awaited match since both teams have made unexpected progress in the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup. This game will also determine the true "dark horse" of this year’s tournament.

U23 Vietnam will play the semifinal at 22:30 on January 20.

Regardless of the upcoming match results, Coach Kim Sang-sik’s team’s journey deserves recognition as a brilliantly successful AFC U23 Asian Cup campaign. Success is not only about ranking but also about strengthened belief, accumulated confidence, and a clear message to the continent that Vietnamese football is on the right path.