The match, held in Chengdu on November 12, saw the Vietnamese squad - led by coach Dinh Hong Vinh - display disciplined defending and sharp counterattacks, despite being under pressure for much of the game.

Right from the start, China U22 pressed hard with direct attacks, forcing goalkeeper Cao Van Binh to make several crucial saves. His most notable stop came in the 28th minute, when he closed down the angle in a one-on-one with forward Behram Abduweli.

While China enjoyed greater possession, Vietnam created some dangerous chances on the break. Thanh Nhan came close to scoring near the end of the first half but was denied by China's keeper.

The tempo intensified in the second half, with both sides pushing forward. The deadlock was broken in the 81st minute after a breakthrough down the left flank. Van Thuan dribbled past his marker and delivered a low cross into the box. A series of defensive errors by China allowed Minh Phuc to pounce and fire home from close range - scoring the game’s only goal.

Scorer: Vietnam U22: Minh Phuc (81’)

Starting lineups:

Vietnam U22: Cao Van Binh, Ly Duc, Hieu Minh, Nhat Minh, Xuan Bac, Van Truong (captain), Van Khang, Cong Phuong, Vo Anh Quan, Thanh Nhan, Quoc Viet

China U22: Li Hao, Peng Xiao, Liu Haofan, Alex Yang, Bao Shinmieng, Xu Bin, Yang Haoyu, Kuai Jiwen, Chan Zheshi, Wang Bohao, Behram Abduweli

Despite having less possession, Vietnam executed a disciplined game plan, using their opportunities effectively. Meanwhile, China failed to convert their dominance into goals.

Vietnam now look ahead to their next match against Uzbekistan U22, who suffered a 2-0 defeat to South Korea in the tournament’s opening game. The Panda Cup 2025, organized by the Chinese Football Association, features top youth teams from Vietnam, South Korea, China, and Uzbekistan, and serves as preparation for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship and SEA Games 33.

Thien Binh