In the press conference ahead of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup semi-final, coach Kim Sang-sik clearly demonstrated his determination and belief in the capabilities of the Vietnamese U23 team in the face of the challenge posed by the Chinese U23 team. He expressed pride that the Vietnamese U23 team had reached the semi-finals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup alongside the top three teams in the continent, and also praised the fighting spirit of his players in the previous matches.
Coach Kim Sang Sik and goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien showed their determination at the press conference before the semi-final match against China U23. Photo: Ted Tran.
The South Korean coach stated that the coaching staff had made thorough preparations in terms of both tactics and mentality. He affirmed that the match against China U23 would continue to be a major challenge: "Tomorrow's match against China U23 will certainly be extremely challenging. This is their first time in the semi-finals, so they are undoubtedly highly motivated and spirited. But Vietnam U23 also has great determination to overcome their own limitations. The whole team will take to the field with the utmost courage and determination, asserting their capabilities to achieve victory."
Furthermore, coach Kim Sang-sik also affirmed that the Vietnam U23 team did not enter the semi-finals with a complacent attitude, despite having previously defeated China U23 1-0.
"We have faced China before and won. Many of their players are still in the current squad, so we have enough data to analyze. However, the whole team is always reminded to maintain the highest level of concentration," the head coach of the Vietnam U23 team shared.
Assessing the opponent, coach Kim Sang-sik particularly respected the Chinese U23 team, noting that they had only conceded one goal since the start of the tournament, goalkeeper Li Hao was playing very consistently, and the defenders were highly focused.
"The Chinese U23 team is in good physical condition and has great determination, but so is the Vietnamese U23 team. We have fully prepared tactical plans and scenarios for tomorrow's match. I believe the Vietnamese U23 team will have a good game and strive to win," said coach Kim Sang-sik.
Regarding the squad, coach Kim Sang-sik affirmed that the Vietnam U23 team advanced to the semi-finals with a complete squad. Injuries to players like Dinh Bac, Le Viktor, Xuan Bac, Thanh Nhan, and Van Thuan were minor, and all players were fit and trained normally during the training session on January 18th.
Coach Kim Sang-sik also expressed his wish for a dream final: "I hope the Vietnam U23 team can qualify for the final and face the South Korea U23 team. Tomorrow, I hope the Vietnam U23 team can defeat the China U23 team. In the other semi-final, I believe the South Korea U23 team will overcome the Japan U23 team."
Speaking at the press conference, goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien also emphasized: "Before the match, the whole team's morale was very high, we were highly focused and strictly followed the tactics of the coaching staff. Personally, I, as well as the whole team, will play with more than 100% effort to win and bring joy to the fans."
In addition, the Vietnamese U23 goalkeeper also expressed respect for his counterpart Li Hao of the Chinese U23 team, saying: "To have not conceded a goal in 4 matches is a very commendable achievement. He is a complete goalkeeper with all the necessary skills. However, we will focus entirely on our own task and play with the highest level of confidence."
The semi-final match between Vietnam U23 and China U23 will take place at 10:30 PM (Vietnam time) on January 20th. With thorough preparation, courageous spirit, and belief in the team, Vietnam U23 enters the semi-final against China U23 determined to continue their memorable journey at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.
Source: https://bvhttdl.gov.vn/hlv-kim-sang-sik-u23-viet-nam-co-tinh-than-tot-san-sang-gianh-chien-thang-de-vao-chung-ket-20260119183620912.htm
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