Facing Uzbekistan U22, head coach Dinh Hong Vinh handed goalkeeper Trung Kien the starting role, while fielding Dinh Bac and Viktor Le from the outset in an attempt to spark creativity in attack.

However, Uzbekistan seized control immediately after the opening whistle. The Central Asian side exploited both flanks with superior speed and physicality, putting Vietnam under heavy pressure. From a rapid buildup, they scored the opening goal early, forcing the Vietnamese team in red to push forward in search of an equalizer.

Following the setback, the red shirts gradually regained composure. Both Dinh Bac and Viktor Le produced dangerous shots, but the Uzbekistan backline held firm, denying clear scoring chances.

In the second half, Vietnam U22 adopted a more aggressive attacking approach and produced several notable plays. Ngoc My nearly scored with a header that struck the crossbar, but his follow-up attempt was also off-target. Despite pressing until the final whistle, Vietnam were unable to alter the outcome.

Vietnam U22 will play their final Panda Cup 2025 match against South Korea U22 on November 18.

Scorer: Saidkhon (4’)

Starting lineups:

Vietnam U22: Trung Kien, Nhat Minh, Hieu Minh, Ly Duc, Phi Hoang, Van Truong (Ngoc My 80'), Quoc Cuong, Minh Phuc, Viktor Le (Thai Son 59'), Dinh Bac (Tuan Phong 80'), Van Thuan (Thanh Nhan 59').

Uzbekistan U22: Rustamov Umar, Khamidov Saidkhon, Murtazaev Dilshod, Khayrullaev Ravshan, Karimov Behruzuon, Yorkboev Shoh, Jumaev Asilbek, Rejabaliev Meyirbek, Tulkunbekov Azizbek, Abdullaev Dilshod, Ibramov Nurlan.

Match highlights and key moments

Before this match, Vietnam U22 had stunned host nation China U22 with a 1-0 win, even without key players like Dinh Bac, Viktor Le, Van Ha, or goalkeeper Trung Kien. This win raised expectations for their performance against Uzbekistan.

Coach Dinh Hong Vinh emphasized the need to stay focused and improve ball control. Though Uzbekistan were considered stronger, Vietnam hoped to replicate their March 0-0 draw with the Central Asian team.

Vietnam U22 started cautiously, but conceded just 4 minutes in, as Karimov Behruzion crossed from the right for Saidkhon to score.

As the first half progressed, Uzbekistan kept up the pressure with aggressive flanking attacks and powerful shots. Vietnam's defense and goalkeeper Trung Kien had to work hard to keep the scoreline close.

Despite efforts from Viktor Le, Dinh Bac, and Minh Phuc, Vietnam couldn’t capitalize on their limited chances. Their closest effort came from Ngoc My, whose 90th-minute header struck the crossbar.

Vietnam's midfield saw frequent changes, including the introduction of Thai Son, Thanh Nhan, and Anh Quan in the second half. These substitutions brought some energy, but not enough to break down Uzbekistan’s disciplined defense.

Coach Dinh Hong Vinh expressed regret after the match, saying Vietnam played well but lacked luck. The team now turns attention to their final Panda Cup fixture against South Korea U22.

Thien Binh