Expectations for the Vietnam U17 team

Following the disappointing 1-1 draw between Vietnam U17 and UAE U17, which saw them miss out on the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025, coach Cristiano Roland said: “Football always has unexpected twists and turns at the last minute. We prepared very carefully for this important match. The players gave their all and showed great teamwork. Although we couldn't advance, I am still very proud of the team's performance.”

He also affirmed: “From the early days of training to the tournament and the final match, the entire team has continuously developed. The players have not only matured professionally but also nurtured greater aspirations for their careers. They are the future of Vietnamese football.”

In the dressing room after the match, I told the players to keep their heads held high. The most important thing at their age is to gain experience and maintain their fighting spirit. We still have a long way to go, and this journey has only just begun.”

The Vietnam U17 team couldn't achieve their goal, however, the performance of the young players in matches against stronger opponents showed many positive signs. The players not only followed the tactics but also displayed a confident spirit. In the two matches against U17 Australia and U17 Japan, despite falling behind, we managed to equalize with well-executed plays.

Another point raised is that we are succeeding with the use of foreign coaches at the youth level. Previously, there was a period when coach Graechen had success with the U19 Hoang Anh Gia Lai and U19 Vietnam teams. Later, the youth teams were mainly led by domestic coaches.

The VFF's decision to select foreign experts for the youth teams has left a positive mark and offers valuable insights into youth training. Experienced foreign coaches with in-depth knowledge and practical skills will greatly benefit Vietnamese youth football. It's clear that the mindset of young Vietnamese players has changed significantly since the U17 Asian Championship.

His ability to inspire and build the players' style of play is also a significant mark. Cristiano Roland once shared after the draw against Japan U17: “We’ve talked a lot about the never-give-up spirit of the Vietnam U17 team, so I won’t mention it again. From a professional standpoint, I found that every player understood the tactical intentions. They all played according to the coaching staff’s preparations, were very disciplined, and gave their all.”

The Vietnam U17 team will have many more opportunities to qualify for the World Cup, as Asia has 8 slots and the tournament is held annually. This motivates the VFF to continue investing in youth football in the country.

As commentator Quang Tung pointed out, this provides a strong foundation of confidence for this generation, along with coach Roland, to continue striving for further progress in their careers. Looking more broadly, this is the direction Vietnamese football should take: sustainable development from the youth level, systematic investment, and a long-term strategy.

Leaving this tournament, the U17 Vietnamese players have every right to hold their heads high. This could be a quality next generation of players for Vietnamese football.

Bui Vi Hao begins rehabilitation exercises.
Bui Vi Hao has completed major surgery. Photo: FBNV
On April 11th, striker Bui Vi Hao shared on his personal page about his injury surgery. "An unexpected but grateful turning point. I just underwent surgery after a torn ankle ligament and fractured fibula. The injury happened so unexpectedly, while I was focusing on a big goal ahead. At that time, I was very worried. Not because of the pain – but because of the unfinished business, the matches I couldn't participate in, and the feeling of helplessness when I couldn't do more," he expressed. The 2003-born striker thanked the doctors, technicians, and nurses at the hospital for taking care of him both physically and mentally during his serious injury. "Now, all I can do is focus on recovery. Although I can't be on the field with my teammates right now, I will still follow the team's progress. And I believe that when I return, I will be stronger and more mature. Thank you to everyone who messaged, called, and sent well wishes; I appreciate every word. See you on the field again!", Vi Hao shared.
Vi Hao is expected to be sidelined for 8-10 months. Therefore, the 2024-2025 V.League season is effectively over for the young striker from Binh Duong club. It is highly likely he will also miss the Vietnam U22 team's participation in the 2026 U23 Asian Championship qualifiers in September and the SEA Games 33 at the end of the year. Vi Hao sustained the injury during a training session preparing for the match against Phu Dong Ninh Binh . In an attempt to contest a ball, Vi Hao landed awkwardly, leading to the injury.
He underwent surgery on April 3rd. After a week of rest, the striker will begin his rehabilitation program.
HH