The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) announced the Gia Lai VTV Cup 2026 international U23 friendly tournament on October 27. The competition will take place from November 10 to 14 at Pleiku Stadium in Gia Lai province, featuring U23 teams from Thailand, Qatar and Singapore alongside hosts Vietnam.

The tournament will give Vietnam's young players an opportunity to test themselves against international opposition, assess their squad and gain valuable experience ahead of future competitions, including the qualifiers for the 2028 AFC U23 Asian Cup.

With head coach Kim Sang-sik set to accompany Vietnam's senior national team to an international friendly tournament in Ninh Binh during the November FIFA international window, Dinh Hong Vinh has been assigned to lead the U23 side.

Vietnam U23 are preparing for the international friendly tournament in Gia Lai. Photo: VFF

"The tournament promises plenty of excitement, especially with Vietnam U23 facing Thailand U23 in the opening match. That will be one of the highlights of this year's competition," said Nguyen Tan Anh, a representative of the organizing committee.

"We will do everything possible to ensure the tournament is well organized and that all participating teams leave with wonderful memories," he added.

VFF General Secretary Nguyen Van Phu outlined Vietnam's ambitions for the competition.

"Coach Kim Sang-sik will select the best available players. Facing strong opponents, Vietnam U23 will aim for the highest possible finish. The tournament is also an opportunity to bring Vietnamese football and the participating international teams closer to fans," Phu said.

The four teams will compete in a single round-robin format, with the final standings determined after each side has played three matches.

The champions will receive $100,000 in prize money, while the runners-up will earn $40,000 and the third-placed team $20,000.

Vietnam U23 will open their campaign against Thailand U23 at 7 p.m. on November 10, before facing Singapore U23 at 7 p.m. on November 12 and Qatar U23 at 7 p.m. on November 14.

The Vietnamese squad is expected to assemble on November 8.

Dai Nam