In the decisive match for the top spot in the group, coach Kim Sang Sik caused a major surprise by making four changes to the starting lineup compared to the victory against U23 Kyrgyzstan. In the attack, U23 Vietnam fielded three players who had mainly been substitutes throughout the tournament: Viktor Le, Cong Phuong, and Ngoc My, replacing regular starters like Dinh Bac and Le Phat. On the other side, U23 Saudi Arabia also made three personnel changes, including two in the defense.
Vietnam U23 team put in a strong performance against the host team (Photo: AFC)
With the goal of needing a win to keep their hopes of advancing alive, the home team started the match with great determination, pushing their formation high and applying pressure right from the opening whistle. Meanwhile, the Vietnam U23 team proactively chose a tight playing style, prioritizing safety in their own half because a draw would be enough to maintain their top spot in the group.
Statistics show that the Saudi Arabia U23 team dominated possession in the first half, reaching 66%, constantly launching attacks down the flanks and crossing the ball into the box to take advantage of their physical and aerial superiority. However, the Vietnam U23 defense played very solidly, holding firm against the increasing pressure from their opponents.
In the final minutes of the first half, the home team created a series of dangerous opportunities. Goalkeeper Trung Kien repeatedly thwarted aerial balls. Hieu Minh also made two crucial saves to block shots during injury time.
In the second half, coach Kim Sang Sik successively brought on key attacking players like Le Phat and Dinh Bac, making the U23 Vietnam team's game sharper. The turning point came in the 65th minute. Taking advantage of a mistake by the U23 Saudi Arabia defense, the ball reached Dinh Bac. Seizing the opportunity, the 2004-born striker accelerated, contested fiercely, penetrated the penalty area, and unleashed a shot from a tight angle, scoring the only goal of the match.
After conceding a goal, the Saudi Arabia U23 team launched a full-scale attack. However, the Vietnam U23 defense continued to show focus and discipline. Unable to find a way to score against Vietnam U23, the home team accepted a 0-1 defeat.
With this victory, Vietnam U23 finished the group stage with a perfect 9 points, achieving their first-ever 100-0 win in all three group stage matches at an AFC U23 Asian Championship and advancing to the knockout stage as group A winners. Jordan U23 finished second with 6 points and, along with coach Kim Sang Sik's team, qualified for the next round, while Saudi Arabia U23 were eliminated early on home soil.
Source: https://bvhttdl.gov.vn/vuot-qua-u23-a-rap-xe-ut-u23-viet-nam-vao-tu-ket-voi-3-tran-toan-thang-20260113022451993.htm
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