U23 Vietnam - U23 South Korea: A Measure of Class

For U23 Vietnam, this match concludes a historic journey, marking the second time the youth team has reached the continental semifinals, following their remarkable run that captivated all of Asia in Changzhou (China) in 2018.

The final challenge for coach Kim Sang-sik’s squad is U23 South Korea — a team eager to salvage the pride of a championship favorite by securing a top-three finish.

Since the milestone in Changzhou eight years ago, U23 Vietnam entered the 2026 AFC U23 Championship as a well-organized unit with a clear identity and the capability to compete fairly with the region’s elite teams. Back in 2018, U23 Vietnam surprised many with their resilient spirit and strong defensive performances under harsh conditions to finish as runners-up.

Now, under coach Kim Sang-sik, this generation of U23 Vietnam not only defends but also actively controls the game, organizes pressing effectively, and transitions quickly. Discipline in tactics remains foundational, but the major difference lies in their footballing mindset.

This U23 Vietnam team has demonstrated more confident ball possession, better tempo management, and less reliance on individual brilliance. This is the result of continuous training combined with frequent international camps, training, and friendly matches.

Led by coach Kim Sang-sik, U23 Vietnam has left many positive marks: organized play, high discipline, and especially an attitude of never giving up against any opponent. Despite some shortcomings in experience and composure at critical moments, the “courageous spirit” shown by the young players throughout the tournament is undeniable.

A streak of 15 official wins (9 clean sheets), victories over teams from Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, eliminating three host nations, winning two tournaments, and reaching the semifinals in another proves that coach Kim Sang-sik’s U23 squad is a genuine force.

Nevertheless, against opponents with superior physicality and speed, U23 Vietnam still shows certain weaknesses, especially lapses in concentration during key moments against U23 China and U23 UAE. Therefore, the third-place match against U23 South Korea will be the ultimate test of their focus and a chance for coach Kim’s players to regain their fighting spirit and relieve pressure.

U23 South Korea enters the match as a traditional powerhouse. Although they missed the final, the Korean team boasts a balanced squad with great speed and excellent fitness. Their high-intensity pressing, fierce duels, and flexible game approach consistently keep strong pressure on their opponents.

For U23 Vietnam, U23 South Korea represents the clearest standard to measure the remaining gap between Vietnamese youth football and Asia’s elite group.

If Changzhou 2018 was a story written with fighting spirit and a desire to surpass limits, the 2026 AFC U23 Championship is proof of the deep and sustainable development of Vietnamese youth football. These two U23 generations differ in personnel, circumstances, and approach but share common traits of resilience and belief in their potential to rise.

Facing U23 South Korea in the third-place match is an emotional moment, but above all, it is an opportunity for coach Kim Sang-sik to affirm his professional imprint and the path he is building for Vietnamese youth football. A strong tournament with valuable experiences will be essential for both the coach and players in the long journey ahead.

Not reaching the final is regrettable for U23 Vietnam, but given the current context, finishing in the top four at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship is a commendable achievement. The players’ performance showed tactical initiative rather than mere survival or luck in critical moments.

Beyond deciding the final ranking, this confrontation between U23 Vietnam and U23 South Korea is a chance for coach Kim Sang-sik’s team to complete their “launchpad” journey and confirm the status of this generation of national players in the near future.

And although missing the final, U23 Vietnam can still be proud of a commendable tournament that demonstrated identity, fighting spirit, and clear progress.

The third-place match between U23 Vietnam and U23 South Korea will take place at 10 PM on January 23. A fair contest against an Asian powerhouse will be a fitting farewell from Saudi Arabia by coach Kim Sang-sik’s team.