U22 Vietnam lost 0-1 to Korea, prioritizing testing
U22 Vietnam ended the Panda Cup 2025 with a 0-1 loss to U22 Korea when they did not use their strongest lineup, changed the entire defense and made the most of 6 substitutions to prepare for SEA Games 33.
U22 Vietnam accepted a 0-1 defeat against U22 Korea in the final round of the 2025 Panda Cup for a bigger goal: testing the maximum number of personnel for the 33rd SEA Games. Following the direction of Coach Kim Sang Sik and implemented by Acting Head Coach Dinh Hong Vinh, the team did not field the strongest lineup, even changing the entire defense in the decisive match, thereby giving up the opportunity to compete for the championship to prioritize the process of evaluating the force.
Strategic priorities: testing over titles
The coaching staff continued the test with the young central defender trio Le Van Ha - Dang Tuan Phong - Nguyen Duc Anh, combined with pillars with international experience such as Khuat Van Khang, Vo Anh Quan, Nguyen Van Truong, Nguyen Thai Son, Nguyen Dinh Bac, Nguyen Quoc Viet and Nguyen Thanh Nhan. The approach emphasized defensive organization, quick transitions and taking advantage of the speed of the attackers.
In the context of still having a chance to compete, changing the entire defense shows that U22 Vietnam is determined with the long-term goal: expanding the playing minutes, testing the adaptability and ability to respond to tactics of the entire list of players.
Development and results: minimal failure, maximum lessons
The match ended 0-1, reflecting the orientation of preserving structure and experimental tempo rather than going all-out for results. The victory of the U22 Korea Republic helped the team to be crowned champions of the 2025 Panda Cup.
Previously, in the two matches against China and Uzbekistan, U22 Vietnam always made the most of 6 substitutions. In the whole tournament, the team had 1 win (against China) and 2 close losses - a series of important clashes against three top opponents in the continent.
Tactical angle: 3 center backs and transitions
The operation of the three central defenders allows U22 Vietnam to strengthen the shield in front of the penalty area and be more proactive in transition situations. The young defensive axis has been rubbed with high intensity, while creating a foundation for the front lines to exploit the space behind the opponent when winning the ball back.
From a team building perspective, this arrangement helps the coaching staff evaluate the players' ability to coordinate in many different structures, from concentration when defending low blocks to reaction speed after winning the ball - key criteria if you want to optimize efficiency in a short tournament like the SEA Games.
Selected statistics
- Final score: U22 Vietnam 0-1 U22 Korea.
- Substitutions: Always make the most of the 6 substitutions in previous matches.
- Tournament record: 1 win (against China), 2 close losses (including the match against Korea).
Impact and the Road Ahead
The 2025 Panda Cup acts as a real pressure test, helping the coaching staff continue to perfect the squad, evaluate personnel and adjust tactics. The accumulated data from the matches against China, Uzbekistan and South Korea is the basis for U22 Vietnam to be more confident when aiming for the biggest goal at the end of the year: SEA Games 33, before continuing to prepare for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.