The success of the entire team.

The 2026 U23 Asian Cup Finals is a suitable opportunity to assess Vietnamese youth football. Most notably, the final group stage match, when Vietnam U23 faces Saudi Arabia U23, will be particularly noteworthy.

It was a match where the young Vietnamese players not only had to face a stronger opponent, but also had to stay alert to avoid dangerous fouls and yellow or red cards.

Ultimately, the Vietnam U23 team won 1-0. The young players displayed maturity, confidence, discipline, and cohesion, remaining composed despite being under intense pressure for almost the entire match. The deep-lying defense played very intelligently, tackling cautiously and avoiding dangerous free kicks. This showcased a disciplined style of play, demonstrating maturity beyond their years, which is highly commendable.

Before the quarter-final match between Vietnam U23 and UAE U23, public opinion still focused on Xuan Bac's goal and goalkeeper Trung Kien's incredible saves in the match against Saudi Arabia. However, it must be emphasized that the victory did not come solely from a few individual moments. Captain Khuat Van Khang effectively contributed to both attack and defense despite playing out of his preferred position. Xuan Bac worked tirelessly in midfield, alongside Thai Son, who is increasingly proving himself an indispensable midfielder.

Not to mention striker Le Phat, who just turned 19, showing great potential thanks to his stamina, speed, skillful technique, and progressive spirit on and off the field. There's also the trio of central defenders Ly Duc, Hieu Minh, and Nhat Minh – a solid foundation for the entire team...

Therefore, the journey of the Vietnam U23 team in this tournament is marked by unity, with each individual striving as a cohesive unit under the tactical guidance of the coaching staff. While some individuals have made a distinct impression, it cannot be denied that this success is the result of a collective effort. This perspective not only ensures fairness in evaluation but also helps young talents avoid complacency. In the history of Vietnamese football, we have "lost" not just one young talent because they became complacent and were subsequently discarded. We have witnessed more than one or two players from the "Changzhou generation" failing to maintain their form at their peak.

Let's offer praise and criticism appropriately, so that players like Dinh Bac, Trung Kien, Thai Son, Le Phat, Thanh Nhan, etc., can continue to improve and not become complacent with their initial success.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/thanh-cong-cua-ca-tap-the-730403.html