U23 Vietnam lose 0-1 to experienced U23 Thailand
On the afternoon of March 28, the Vietnam U23 national team entered their second match at the CFA Team China International Football Tournament – Xi’an 2026 against Thailand U23. Facing an opponent highly rated for their superior experience and squad depth, the players under Interim Head Coach Dinh Hong Vinh put up a spirited performance. This match provided the team with invaluable lessons as they continue to refine their squad for long-term objectives.
01/04/2026 08:46:59
The coaching staff identified this tournament as a vital opportunity to assess the squad, enhance cohesion between lines, and perfect their tactical approach. Notably, Vietnam U23 is competing with a core of players born from 2005 onwards—all under the age of 21—as part of their preparations for the 2026 Asian Games and other upcoming major assignments. Consequently, the clash with Thailand U23 served as a “litmus test” for this young generation.
On the other side, Thailand U23 showed high determination in this rematch, following their defeat to Vietnam in the 33rd SEA Games final. The “War Elephants” boasted a more seasoned squad, featuring players born between 2003 and 2005, including several faces with prior SEA Games experience.
To give match experience to more players, the Vietnam U23 coaching staff made three changes to the starting lineup compared to the previous match, introducing Hai Anh, Quoc Tu, and Anh Tuan.
Thailand U23 found the net just a minute into the game following a coordinated play on the left wing. Jehhanafee Mamah broke through and unleashed a strike that took a wicked deflection off a Vietnamese defender, leaving goalkeeper Cao Van Binh with no chance to react.
Despite the early setback, Vietnam U23 gradually regained their composure and carved out several notable chances. In the 25th minute, from a Van Thuan corner, Thang Long had a close-range opportunity but failed to convert. Earlier, in the 20th minute, Thailand U23 nearly doubled their lead when Thanakrit broke clear for a one-on-one, only to see his shot drag wide of the post.
The closing stages of the first half saw intense pressure from Thailand U23 as they employed a high-pressing game. In the 2nd minute of stoppage time (), goalkeeper Cao Van Binh pulled off a stunning save, using his feet to deny Thanakrit’s point-blank effort, keeping the score at 0-1 as the teams headed into the interval.
In the second half, Vietnam U23 proactively pushed their defensive line higher in search of an equalizer. In the 51st minute, Ba Dat executed a free kick that whistled just inches wide of the post. However, facing a physically strong and well-organized opponent, Vietnam’s attacking maneuvers encountered significant resistance.
On the flip side, Thailand U23 continued to threaten. In the 57th minute, Nguyen Hoang made a timely intervention to clear the danger for Vietnam. By the 73rd minute, Thanakrit once again broke through and fired from a tight angle, but goalkeeper Cao Van Binh narrowed the angle effectively to make the save.
Despite their persistent efforts in the remaining time, Vietnam U23 could not find a way through. The match concluded with a 0-1 defeat for Vietnam U23 against Thailand U23.
While the result was not as desired, the match provided substantial technical value for Vietnam U23, especially given the squad’s significant rejuvenation. After two matchdays, the coaching staff has gained a clearer basis to evaluate and shortlist personnel, further refining the team as they head toward key targets like the 2026 Asian Games and future international competitions.
