Coach Yutaka Ikeuchi: “Vietnam U19 approach every match as a final”

Speaking to the media, coach Yutaka Ikeuchi expressed his delight that the young players have the opportunity to compete in a highly competitive regional tournament, allowing them to gain valuable international experience for their future development.

“We are very happy that the young players have the chance to compete in this tournament. Vietnam U19 will do our utmost and approach every match as a final,” coach Yutaka Ikeuchi emphasized.

In Group A, Vietnam U19 are drawn alongside hosts Indonesia, Myanmar and Timor-Leste. Among these fixtures, the encounter between Vietnam U19 and Indonesia U19 has been widely regarded by experts and fans as the standout match of the group stage.

When asked about this assessment, coach Yutaka Ikeuchi said that Vietnam U19 are not focusing on any single opponent but will approach the tournament with maximum determination in every match. “As I mentioned, Vietnam U19 will fight with everything we have in every game. The match against Indonesia is no exception,” he said.

Indonesia U19 enter this year’s tournament as defending champions after defeating Thailand 1-0 in the 2024 final. The hosts are once again considered among the leading contenders for the title, boasting a strong squad that includes six players currently training and playing overseas.

Meanwhile, Vietnam U19 head into the tournament without what would be considered their strongest possible squad due to player availability issues linked to domestic competition schedules. Nevertheless, coach Yutaka Ikeuchi remains confident in the players at his disposal and in the fighting spirit of the entire team.

Later the same afternoon, Vietnam U19 will hold their final training session in Medan to fine-tune tactical plans and review the squad as they aim for a positive start to the 2026 AFF U19 Championship.