Vietnam U16 show positive spirit and playing style in CFA Team China 2026 opener
Vietnam U16 put in a positive performance against Australia U16 in their opening match at the CFA Team China International U16 Tournament 2026. Despite suffering a 2-4 defeat, head coach Hoàng Anh Tuấn’s side showed initiative in their build-up play, created a number of chances and at times put considerable pressure on their opponents.
29/09/2026 18:25:14
After a cautious opening spell, Vietnam U16 gradually grew in confidence and began putting together a number of promising attacks. In the 19th minute, Văn Cảnh broke into the penalty area following a counter-attack and had a chance to finish, but his effort was blocked by an Australian defender. Just a minute later, from a corner, Trung Anh rose highest to head the ball into the far corner, giving Vietnam U16 a 1-0 lead.
Vietnam continued to maintain a positive approach and showed confidence in building from the back. However, Australia capitalised on a misplaced pass by Vietnam to level the score at 1-1 in the 28th minute. Six minutes later, Australia launched a counter-attack and delivered a dangerous cross into the box, which Minh Quang inadvertently turned into his own net, giving Australia a 2-1 lead at half-time.
After the restart, Australia extended their lead to 3-1 in the 56th minute following another turnover by Vietnam in midfield. In the 66th minute, Australia were awarded a penalty after Minh Hoàng committed a foul inside the box, allowing them to increase their advantage to 4-1.
Refusing to give up, Vietnam continued to push forward in search of another goal. In the 71st minute, Trung Anh delivered a low cross following a counter-attack, allowing Minh Nhật to arrive and finish to reduce the deficit to 2-4. In the 83rd minute, Vietnam were awarded a penalty after Tuấn Kiệt was fouled inside the box, but Minh Nhật was unable to beat the Australian goalkeeper from the spot.
Vietnam continued to create several chances in the closing stages but could not find another goal. The match ended with head coach Hoàng Anh Tuấn’s side suffering a 2-4 defeat to Australia U16.
Although the result was not what they had hoped for, the match provided valuable experience for the young players as they continue to gain exposure to international competition. Vietnam’s positive approach in possession, fighting spirit and determination to create chances until the final minutes were notable aspects of their performance against a quality opponent.
The CFA Team China 2026 tournament therefore provides an important opportunity for the young players to compete in an international environment, test their ability to adapt against opponents with different levels and playing styles, and gain further match experience as part of their long-term development.
According to the schedule, Vietnam U16 will next face hosts China U16 on 27 September before concluding the tournament against Kyrgyzstan U16 on 30 September.
