2026 AFC U23 Championship: The Challenge of the 'Steel Shield' and the Dream Scenario

U23 China is the only team to reach the semifinals without conceding a single goal, thanks to their disciplined defense and outstanding goalkeeper Li Hao’s performance. However, they face a significant physical disadvantage after enduring a grueling 120 minutes in the quarterfinal. On the other hand, U23 Vietnam, with in-form forwards like Đình Bắc and Khuất Văn Khang, are in high spirits following their thrilling victory over U23 UAE. Given their favorable head-to-head record, including a recent win at the Panda Cup, many experts predict U23 Vietnam will narrowly win 1-0 to secure their place in the final.

To ensure fairness in this crucial match, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has appointed Australian referee Alexander George King as the main official. This referee is well-known and has been a lucky charm for Coach Kim Sang Sik’s team, having officiated their 1-0 group stage win against host Saudi Arabia earlier this year. King is recognized as a strict but fair referee and has twice been awarded the A-League Referee of the Year. Additionally, the presence of an experienced Australian officiating team and VAR technology is expected to guarantee transparency in this intense semifinal.

Notably, the excitement surrounding this match extends beyond Vietnam and China, reaching South Korea. Korean media is enthusiastically envisioning a "dream" final between U23 Vietnam and U23 South Korea. The Dailian newspaper commented that if U23 Vietnam overcomes China and U23 South Korea defeats Japan in the other semifinal, the football world will witness a historic tactical battle between two fellow Korean coaches, Kim Sang Sik and Lee Min Sung. Korean press has praised Coach Kim Sang Sik’s “magic” in transforming U23 Vietnam and hopes this scenario will materialize, highlighting the growing influence and status of Korean strategists in Asian football.