Vietnam U17 team trains in cold rain, determined to create a surprise against Japan U17
Despite the cold weather and heavy rain in Taif city (Saudi Arabia), U17 Vietnam still practiced diligently to prepare for the challenging encounter with U17 Japan in the second match of the 2025 AFC U17 Championship Finals.
On the evening of April 6, in the rare sudden cold in Taif city, where the 2025 AFC U17 Championship finals are taking place, the Vietnam U17 team still maintained a regular training pace.
The city of Taif is experiencing a rare weather condition these days – pouring rain, dropping temperatures, and bitterly cold winds. These are unfavorable conditions for a team from a tropical climate like Vietnam. However, in contrast to the harshness of nature, the atmosphere on the training ground of the U17 Vietnam team is full of enthusiasm.
As the rain became heavier, instead of interrupting the training session, the whole team focused and tried harder. The young players were still enthusiastic in completing each part of the training plan, from small group coordination exercises, practicing the ability to escape pressing, to simulated tactical situations. Playing in the rain was also considered an opportunity for the players to get used to unpredictable situations in real matches.
Under the pouring rain, coach Cristiano Roland continuously shouted and corrected each movement of his students, leaving a strong impression. The Brazilian coach is not only the one who plans tactics, but also plays the role of a spiritual support for the whole team.
“Nothing can stop serious preparation. The more difficult the conditions, the more we have to show our mettle” – that is one of the strong messages that Mr. Roland conveyed during the training session. Besides, he always emphasized that the difference at the continental level is not in physique or fitness, but in concentration, spirit and tactical discipline.
Japan U17 is a highly rated opponent with outstanding technical foundation, tactical thinking and near-perfect control of the game. However, in youth football, anything can happen. And that is what coach Roland and his team believe.
Although the opening match was not perfect for U17 Vietnam, positive signs of confidence, cohesion and competitive spirit were evident. The upcoming match is not only an opportunity to seek points, but also an opportunity for the players to compete with top-class opponents, thereby accumulating valuable experience for their long-term development journey.
The match between the U17 Vietnam team and U17 Japan will take place at 6:00 p.m. on April 7 (local time), or 10:00 p.m. Vietnam time. Fans are eagerly awaiting a brave performance from the young Golden Star Warriors, in a match that promises to be full of emotions in Group B, the 2025 AFC U17 Championship Finals./.
