Coach Dinh Hong Vinh inspires the Vietnam U22 team before the match against Uzbekistan.
After defeating China U22 1-0, coach Dinh Hong Vinh emphasized healthy competition, called for squad changes, and demanded that Vietnam U22 be proactive when facing Uzbekistan U22.
Ahead of their second match at the 2025 Panda Cup against Uzbekistan U22, Vietnam U22 received a clear morale boost from coach Dinh Hong Vinh. Following their 1-0 victory over China U22 in the opening match, the 51-year-old coach emphasized the importance of healthy competition and a willingness to rotate players to maintain a proactive approach.
A message of competition and the ability to rotate the squad.
In the latest training session, coach Dinh Hong Vinh sent a strong message about equal playing opportunities: “The main goal of this training camp is for everyone to have a chance to play as a starting player, no one is a substitute. Tomorrow, I may completely reshuffle the lineup.” This statement opens the door for new faces to showcase their talents, while maintaining positive pressure on each position.
Expert analysis on the morning of November 14th: learning from experience to improve.
The coaching staff held a technical meeting on the morning of November 14th, using video analysis to summarize the match against the Chinese U22 team. Coach Dinh Hong Vinh praised the fighting spirit but pointed out three areas that need immediate improvement:
- Ball control
- State transition rate
- Effective in final finishing situations.
These are key elements that determine the quality of play, especially when the team aims to maintain a proactive tempo. Perfecting these aspects will help the Vietnam U22 team increase stability in ball development and be sharper in decisive moments.
Uzbekistan U22: technically skilled and well-organized opponent.
Assessing their next opponent, coach Dinh Hong Vinh commented that U22 Uzbekistan is a technically skilled and well-organized team, posing a real challenge. This context requires U22 Vietnam to maintain intensity, focus, and tactical discipline to control the tempo and minimize gaps in sensitive areas.
The objective is to take the initiative.
The message from the coaching staff is clear: continue to prepare thoroughly with the aim of maintaining the initiative. After the opening match which created positive momentum, considering changes to the lineup could help the team regain energy and increase flexibility in their approach to the game.
Impact on the Panda Cup 2025 rankings
Currently, Vietnam U22 is in second place with 3 points, level with South Korea U22 but behind due to goal difference. Uzbekistan U22 is at the bottom of the table after losing their opening match. The upcoming match is therefore crucial for Vietnam U22's ambitions in the tournament.
High spirits after the opening match and expectations for a positive performance.
The 1-0 victory against China U22 not only secured points but also strengthened the team's belief in the direction they are building. With determination, thorough preparation, and a message of unity from the coaching staff, Vietnam U22 is expected to continue delivering a positive performance when they face Uzbekistan U22.


