Vietnam’s U17 team delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Malaysia in the final to lift the Southeast Asian U17 Championship, setting a new record with their fourth title and reinforcing their position as the region’s leading force.

From the opening whistle, the side coached by Cristiano Roland imposed control with confidence and intent. In the 11th minute, Quy Vuong opened the scoring amid a scramble inside the penalty area, following an earlier effort from Sy Bach that had struck the post - an early signal of Vietnam’s dominance.

Vietnam maintained complete control and doubled their advantage just before halftime. In stoppage time of the first half, Nguyen Luc threaded a precise through ball for Van Duong, who finished calmly to make it 2-0.

Malaysia pushed forward after the break but struggled to create meaningful chances. In the 55th minute, Van Duong completed his brace after a well-worked move, finishing from Tri Dung’s assist to seal a comprehensive 3-0 win.

The victory not only secured Vietnam their fourth Southeast Asian U17 title - a record in the competition - but also highlighted the team’s consistency and tactical maturity throughout the tournament.

Vietnam’s goals came from Quy Vuong in the 11th minute and Van Duong in first-half stoppage time and the 54th minute.

The starting lineup for Vietnam included Xuan Hoa, Manh Cuong, Dang Khoa, Anh Hao, Quy Vuong, Hoang Viet, Minh Thuy, Dai Nhan, Nguyen Luc, Van Duong and Sy Bach. Malaysia fielded Adam, Amsyar, Muqri, Fareez, Aniq, Fazryel, Dini, Muzakif, Muslim, Yusuf and Aqif.

Vietnam’s journey to the title was equally impressive. They remained unbeaten across five matches, recording four wins and one draw, scoring 19 goals and conceding just once. Across all competitions under Roland, the team has now gone 16 matches unbeaten, with 10 wins and six draws, scoring 55 goals while conceding only five.

This triumph also marked the first major title for coach Cristiano Roland after two years in charge. Speaking after the match, he praised his players’ commitment and development.

“The players performed exceptionally well and gave everything. I am truly proud of what they have shown. This is a deserved reward for their preparation and spirit,” he said.

Reflecting on the campaign, he noted that despite limited preparation time, the squad had adapted quickly to his tactical philosophy. “Implementing a new football philosophy in a short time is not easy, but the players’ dedication made the difference.”

He emphasized that the achievement goes beyond a single trophy. “This is not just a victory in a tournament. It is a step towards building a clear identity for the team.”

Roland also highlighted improvements in decision-making and spatial awareness on the pitch, calling such tournaments essential for young players to gain experience and grow.

Vietnam’s performance has not gone unnoticed. Shortly after the final, the Asian Football Confederation praised the team’s achievement, describing them as “Southeast Asian champions” and commending their impressive journey.

The governing body’s recognition underscores the significance of the title, as Vietnam defeated strong opponents including Australia in the semifinal before overcoming Malaysia in the final.

With four titles to their name - previously won in 2006, 2010 and 2017 - Vietnam now stand alone as the most successful team in the competition’s history, ahead of Australia and Thailand, who each have three.

Looking ahead, the team will turn their focus to the AFC U17 Asian Cup scheduled for May. Drawn in a challenging group alongside South Korea, the UAE and Yemen, Vietnam aim to reach the quarterfinals and secure qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup.

The recent triumph provides both momentum and belief as the young squad prepares to test themselves on the continental stage.

Thien Binh