U23 Vietnam completed a flawless run in the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers with a perfect 9-point tally, marking their sixth consecutive appearance in the tournament’s final stage. But behind the seemingly smooth ticket lies a host of challenges that coach Kim Sang Sik must soon address.

An easy road to qualification

U23 Vietnam wrapped up their qualification campaign with a 1-0 victory over U23 Yemen, thanks to a decisive goal from Thanh Nhan. With three wins from three matches, zero goals conceded, and a place secured in the final tournament, coach Kim Sang Sik and his squad achieved their target in an efficient and orderly manner.

Looking back, Vietnam’s journey to qualification was arguably the most comfortable in recent memory. Playing on home soil at Viet Tri Stadium, fielding their strongest squad filled with standout talents, and facing lower-ranked opponents like U23 Bangladesh (2-0), U23 Singapore (1-0), and U23 Yemen (1-0), the team had everything going their way.

Given these favorable conditions, Vietnam’s clean sweep wasn’t a surprise. In fact, it was expected rather than explosive. The most meaningful takeaway was that coach Kim Sang Sik had more time to assess his lineup, refine tactics, and evaluate team spirit for the long road ahead.

Yet concerns remain...

While the results show 9 points, 4 goals scored, and zero conceded - an ideal outcome on paper - the performances were far from convincing when examined more closely. The team’s long-standing issues persisted: underwhelming finishing, inefficient attacking play compared to chances created, and a lack of creativity when opponents adopted a defensive approach.

Scoring just 4 goals in 3 games against inferior opponents is a modest return given the volume of chances created. The forwards squandered multiple opportunities, lacking the composure and precision needed in critical moments. Without Thanh Nhan’s moment of brilliance, the match against Yemen could easily have ended differently.

While this sixth consecutive qualification is commendable, it’s not enough to suggest that Vietnam is ready for higher ambitions or tougher opponents.

Coach Kim Sang Sik needs more than attractive stats. What he requires is a marked improvement in finishing efficiency and a more flexible tactical system. Right now, Vietnam’s gameplay feels too precarious, often on the verge of unraveling when tested.

Hopefully, the preparation period for the SEA Games and the final tournament will be a time for transformation - a chance for U23 Vietnam to evolve, address their weaknesses, and soar higher.

Duy Nguyen