The Vietnamese side started proactively and struck early. In the 6th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error, Minh Tam reacted quickly inside the box to give the team in red a 1-0 lead.

Following the goal, Vietnam U23 maintained control of the game despite an early setback when Thai Ba Dat was forced off with injury.

Throughout the remainder of the first half, the team under coach Dinh Hong Vinh sustained a solid tempo. Cong Phuong had a clear chance to double the lead but failed to convert.

In the second half, Vietnam U23 deliberately slowed the pace and introduced several substitutes. This allowed North Korea U23 to increase pressure.

In the 80th minute, the East Asian side took advantage of their opportunity to equalize, bringing the score to 1-1.

The closing minutes saw both teams locked in a tense battle, but neither could find a decisive goal. Vietnam U23 were forced to settle for a draw in their tournament opener.

Goals

Vietnam U23: Minh Tam (6’)

North Korea U23: (80’)

Line-ups

Vietnam U23: Cao Van Binh, Le Nguyen Hoang, Dinh Quang Kiet, Nguyen Bao Long (Quoc Toan 90’+1), Thai Ba Dat (Quang Vinh 78’), Tran Thanh Trung (Quang Huy 55’), Nguyen Minh Tam (Dang Duong 55’), Le Van Thuan (Quang Vinh 78’), Le Thanh Long, Nguyen Cong Phuong (Vadim Nguyen 55’ - Anh Tuan 90’+1), Vu Quoc Anh

North Korea U23: Kang Ju Hyok, Jang Kuk Chol, Kang Kuk Chol, Kim Kuk Bol, Kim Kuk Jin, Kim Kyong Sok, Pom Hyok Kim, Kim Yu Song, Paek Chung Song, Ri II Song, Ri Jo Guk

 
Thien Binh