Drawn into a challenging group alongside U17 Korea, U17 UAE and U17 Yemen, coach Cristiano Roland’s side will open their campaign against Yemen on May 7, face Korea on May 10, and conclude the group stage against the UAE on May 14.

Among the three opponents, Yemen are considered the most manageable. In a group where competition for the two qualifying spots is fierce, Nguyen Luc and his teammates must secure a win. Anything less would significantly diminish their chances of progressing.

Beyond the three points, a victory in the opening match would provide a crucial psychological boost, especially with much tougher opponents awaiting.

Vietnam arrive at the tournament well prepared, with growing belief that they can compete on equal terms and even spring a surprise against Korea in the second group match. Should that scenario unfold, it would put the Southeast Asian champions in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals and claim a World Cup berth.

However, much will depend on how matches unfold. Korea are widely regarded as the strongest side in the group, making even a draw a positive outcome for Vietnam.

In other words, Vietnam must strive for the best possible result while maintaining composure. Overconfidence could prove costly against an opponent with considerable pedigree, including three World Cup appearances and a semi-final finish at the 2025 AFC U17 Asian Cup.

If they achieve a favorable result while preserving key players’ fitness against Korea, Vietnam will head into their final group match against the UAE in a strong position. That clash is widely seen as a decisive “final” for both teams.

At the 2025 edition of the tournament, Vietnam and the UAE played out a 1-1 draw. A year on, both sides have evolved, with Vietnam emerging as a more cohesive, resilient and disciplined unit.

The UAE remain a formidable opponent, but in a high-stakes encounter, Vietnam have every reason to believe they can compete head-on and secure victory.

For Vietnam’s young generation, the path to the World Cup may come down to a single defining moment.

Dai Nam