The Vietnam U23 team during their draw against North Korea - Photo: VFF
Having lost 2-3 to Vietnam U23 in the SEA Games 33 final on home soil late last year, Thailand U23, now with a stronger squad, is eager to defeat Vietnam U23 to gain crucial momentum in preparation for the 20th Asian Games in Japan this September.
The U23 Thailand team arrived in China with only 11 players who had participated in the 33rd SEA Games. Coach Thawatchai Dumrong-Ongtrakun's squad also had 14 out of 23 players aged 22-23. With a squad full of experienced players, U23 Thailand took a 2-0 lead against U23 China before the home team equalized 2-2 in their opening match.
Meanwhile, the current Vietnam U23 team consists only of players aged 19-21. Among them are three players who previously participated in the SEA Games 33 and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship: goalkeeper Cao Văn Bình, midfielder Công Phương, and Lê Văn Thuận. Despite this, they played quite well in their opening match, drawing 1-1 against strong opponent North Korea U23. Even rookie striker Minh Tâm scored the opening goal.
Against Vietnam U23, Thailand faced difficulties due to the absence of two key defenders: versatile defender Oussama Thiangkham (red card) and center-back Wichan Inaram (1.86m) who was injured in the match against China U23. However, Thailand U23's attacking strength should not be underestimated, with two forwards aged only 19-20: Thiraphat Puethong and Jehhanafee Mamah. Thiraphat plays for Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo (Japan), while Jehhanafee scored in the draw against China U23.
Although aiming to refine the squad for the future, the Vietnam U23 team also doesn't want to lose to Thailand U23 in China.
NGUYEN KHOI
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/u23-viet-nam-u23-thai-lan-doi-dau-hap-dan-20260328083549214.htm
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