Vietnam’s U17 national team continued their impressive run in the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup qualifiers with a commanding 4-0 victory over Macau (China) on November 28, reclaiming the top spot in Group C and setting up a decisive showdown with Malaysia.

The goals came early and often. In the 9th minute, Dinh Vy opened the scoring with a technical solo move and precise diagonal finish. Twelve minutes later, Manh Quan capitalized on a goalmouth scramble to double the lead.

Dominating possession and territory, Vietnam kept Macau on the back foot. In the 32nd minute, Ngoc Son combined neatly with Quy Vuong before striking home a third. Just five minutes after that, Duy Khang slotted in a decisive volley from a corner to close the half at 4-0.

Despite controlling the second half and creating several chances, Vietnam were unable to add to their tally. Still, the result preserved their perfect record after four matches and extended their goal difference to +26, six goals better than Malaysia.

The group finale between Vietnam and Malaysia, scheduled for November 30, will determine the team that secures a direct ticket to the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 finals.

Vietnam's starting eleven: Ba Huan, Manh Cuong, Xuan Toan, Anh Hao, Minh Cuong, Dinh Vy, Duy Khang, Quy Vuong, Viet Nam, Ngoc Son, Manh Quan.

Macau (China) lineup: Travis Cheong, Harrison Tang, Tang Tin, Au Kok Man, Hei Nuno, Kuan Hou, Matias Chow, Chi Hin, Tugla Batu, Chi Fung, Chan U Chit.

From the opening whistle, Vietnam asserted dominance. Coach Cristiano Roland’s side pressed aggressively and transitioned quickly, pinning Macau deep in their own half. The intensity paid off early and didn’t let up until halftime.

In the second half, Vietnam adopted a slower, more controlled approach to conserve energy for the decisive match against Malaysia. Although substitutions were made and some key players were rested, the Vietnamese team maintained full control of the game.

Goalkeeper Chu Ba Huan had a quiet evening, rarely being tested as Macau struggled to generate any offensive threat.

Malaysia, who had earlier defeated Singapore 2-1, briefly overtook Vietnam in the standings, but Vietnam’s later kick-off and big win put them back on top.

The two-day break before the final group match gives Coach Roland a window to rotate and refine his squad. The showdown against Malaysia is expected to be a high-stakes affair to decide the top team of Group C.

Thien Binh