VietNamNet Bridge – Viet Nam’s U20 were thrashed by Argentina U20 4-1 in a friendly in Thong Nhat Stadium tonight.

Pride of the nation: U20 Viet Nam celebrate after scoring a goal against U20 Argentina.

The match was a rehearsal for the FIFA U20 World Cup in South Korea between May and June 2017 for both teams.

With their outstanding individuals whose skills are world class, the away side dominated the match from kick-off.

Viet Nam set out their stall with a disciplined defence and despite the near-constant pressure, managed some impressive counter-attacks.

However, a slip in concentration from the Vietnamese defenders in the 28th minute, Argentine attacker Ezequiel Ponce received a pass from his teammate Marcelo Torres and opened the scoring.

Though both teams had opportunities to find the net, the first half ended 1-0.

Argentina continued to dominate after the break, with Ezequiel Mansilla doubling their advantage with a header in the early minutes of the second half, Torres again the provider.

The away side pulled away with another two goals through Mendez Ignacio in the 62nd and 87th minutes; however Viet Nam refused to lie down and scored a late consolation through attacker Ha Duc Chinh.

Despite the heavy defeat the Vietnamese side will be able to learn from the experience of competing against a greatly superior opponent.

Viet Nam’s squad will play one more friendly against Vanuatu U20 on May 14 in South Korea, one week before their U20 FIFA World Cup campaign begins against New Zealand in Group E.

Argentina are a regular face at the U20 World Cup, having won the competition six times. This is Viet Nam’s first appearance. 

While Argentina hope to come away as winners of the tournament, Viet Nam have already made history as the first ever Southeast Asian team to compete at the tournament. 

At the World Cup, Argentina are in Group A with hosts South Korea, Guinea and England, while Viet Nam are in Group E with France, Honduras and New Zealand.

VNS