
Defender Pham Minh Phuc in the Vietnam U23 jersey - Photo: Bao Ngoc
A 1-0 victory against Yemen U23 was just enough to secure Vietnam U23 the top spot in Group C and a direct qualification to Saudi Arabia in January 2026 for the AFC U23 Asian Championship finals.
After 3 matches, the Vietnam U23 team scored 4 goals. This included two narrow victories against Yemen and Singapore. Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien did not concede any goals at Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho province.
Commenting on the performance of coach Kim Sang Sik and his team, football expert Phan Anh Tú pointed out: "The U23 Vietnam players have matured over time, through each tournament and each match. Previously, they won the U23 Southeast Asian Championship, and now Coach Kim Sang Sik is leading this group to the Asian Championship finals."
The players gradually matured and gained a better understanding of the South Korean coach's familiar tactics and player selection.
Kim Jong-un typically has two attacking lineups at his disposal and is ready to make three substitutions simultaneously at any point if he reads the game and sees an opportunity that benefits his team.
Mr. Phan Anh Tú pointed out that coach Kim Sang Sik's decision to substitute three attacking players in the 39th minute of the match against U23 Yemen was decisive. "When he realized the opponent was defending tightly and waiting for the second half, Coach Kim immediately changed the attacking line to focus his efforts on scoring first, making it easier to plan for the second half."
"U23 Yemen is stronger than the other two teams in the group. But their playing style lacks structure and outstanding individual players. That's why they didn't score in the second half, while U23 Vietnam capitalized on their opportunities," commented Mr. Tú.
Having completed his duties with the Vietnam U23 team, coach Kim Sang Sik has reason not to coach the national team during this FIFA Days period. He wants to gradually finalize the Vietnam U23 squad for the 33rd SEA Games.
Defender Pham Minh Phuc is a new discovery in this tournament. Expert Phan Anh Tu believes he is a surprising factor on the right flank of the Vietnam U23 team thanks to his confidence and dribbling ability.
The 33rd SEA Games will take place from December 9th to 22nd in Thailand. The Vietnam U23 team has 90 days left before beginning their journey to reclaim the gold medal in men's football.
Although not yet perfect and still having shortcomings, the progress made in the two recent competitions provides valuable lessons for coach Kim Sang Sik to evaluate and refine the Vietnam U23 team for the remainder of the season.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/u23-viet-nam-truong-thanh-hon-cho-sea-games-33-20250909235904503.htm








