Following a 0–3 defeat to China in the semifinals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup, U23 Vietnam returned to training on January 21, readying themselves for the third-place playoff against South Korea. Though their dream of reaching the final slipped away, the team remains determined to close the tournament on a high note.

Before the session began, head coach Kim Sang Sik gathered his players to offer words of encouragement. Acknowledging the disappointment, the South Korean coach emphasized that failure is an essential step toward growth and maturity.

"Stand up stronger from this," he told his squad.

The atmosphere, though somber, quickly shifted as players clasped hands and shouted “Vietnam!” in unison - a symbolic gesture reaffirming their unity and resolve ahead of the final challenge.

However, Coach Kim faces more than just the task of restoring morale. U23 Vietnam will have to confront South Korea without their two starting center-backs: Hieu Minh, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, and Ly Duc, who received a straight red card in the semifinal and now faces a three-match suspension.

Major defensive void challenges Vietnam’s final hopes

Throughout the tournament, Hieu Minh had been a cornerstone of the Vietnamese defense, starting all five matches. The 2004-born center-back was named Player of the Match in the team’s opening win over Jordan, where he also scored the decisive goal. With 36 clearances, he ranked second among all defenders in the tournament, trailing only China’s Xiao Peng.

Ly Duc, another consistent starter from the start of the campaign, brought strength and physical presence to the backline. However, a momentary lapse in judgment led to his red card - a costly absence in what will be U23 Vietnam’s most emotionally charged game.

The loss of these two experienced defenders leaves Coach Kim with few options. Duc Anh and Van Ha are the only center-backs left in the squad, but neither has made a convincing case for a starting role.

Duc Anh was brought on to replace the injured Hieu Minh during the previous match but was later subbed off in favor of more attacking reinforcements. Van Ha has had minimal time on the pitch throughout the tournament, only coming on as a late substitute in earlier games.

With little time and limited alternatives, Coach Kim may have to pair Duc Anh with Nhat Minh, who remains the last fit central defender with tournament experience. The team will also rely on goalkeeper Trung Kien to deliver a standout performance to withstand South Korea’s offensive pressure.

Playing with pride, nothing to lose

Despite the uphill battle, the team’s resolve remains intact. Coach Kim Sang Sik knows that reaching the semifinals alone is already a significant achievement. With standout performances from players like Dinh Bac and Van Khang, U23 Vietnam has proven its ability to compete at the continental level.

Going into their final match, the team is expected to adopt a fearless mindset - "playing as if there's nothing left to lose." A surprise result against a tournament favorite like South Korea would not only earn them the bronze medal but also cement their run as one of Vietnam’s most successful U23 campaigns to date.

The third-place playoff between U23 Vietnam and U23 South Korea will kick off at 10 PM on January 23.

Dai Nam