U17 Vietnam drew 1-1 with Matsuyama University in Japan
U17 Vietnam took the lead thanks to Manh Quan's goal in the 52nd minute from Duy Khang's pass, before Matsuyama University equalized on penalties; Coach Roland rotated his squad.
Vietnam U17 drew 1-1 with Matsuyama University in the second friendly match in Ehime, Japan. Manh Quan opened the scoring in the 52nd minute after Duy Khang's sharp pass and evaded pressure, before the opponent equalized on the penalty spot. The match took place in the context of coach Cristiano Roland prioritizing to test the force and perfect the tactical plan.
Developments and highlights
With many adjustments in the starting lineup and facing an experienced opponent, U17 Vietnam started the match cautiously. After about 15 minutes, the red team gradually controlled the tempo, applied reasonable pressing and deployed the ball more coherently.
The first half saw two clear chances, but Sy Bach and Hiep Dai Viet's shots could not beat the Matsuyama University goalkeeper.
In the second half, U17 Vietnam played better. In the 52nd minute, Duy Khang handled the ball skillfully to escape the pressure, then made a pass that tore through the defense line, creating an opportunity for Manh Quan to run down and score the opening goal 1-0. Not long after, Matsuyama University was awarded a penalty and successfully took advantage to equalize 1-1. For the rest of the match, coach Cristiano Roland continued to rotate to give playing opportunities, helping the game to be balanced until the end of the match.
Personnel and intentions of coach Cristiano Roland
The coaching staff's goal is to test, evaluate the squad and perfect tactical plans. Compared to the first match in Japan, the starting lineup has been adjusted extensively:
- Goalkeeper: Tuan Vu
- Defenders: Minh Cuong, Manh Cuong, Dang Khoa, Anh Hao
- Midfielders: Tri Dung, Duy Khang, Minh Loi, Van Nam, Sy Bach
- Forward: Long Nhat
This personnel arrangement emphasizes the ability to organize the defense with a back four, reinforce the midfield with five midfielders to support pressing and ball circulation, and place Long Nhat in the highest position to exploit the gaps behind the opponent's defense.
Tactical angle: pressing and the unlocking moment
The highlight was the ability to adjust the tempo after a tentative start. U17 Vietnam was more proactive in applying pressure, thereby creating a favorable environment for technical decisions in the middle. The opening goal was proof: Duy Khang escaped the pressure and sent a through ball at the right time, while Manh Quan moved behind the defense to finish neatly.
On the other hand, the penalty situation reminded the need to maintain concentration and discipline in the penalty area. In a highly experimental match, such moments give the coaching staff more data to fine-tune the defensive principles.
Background and future plans
Before the draw with Matsuyama University, Vietnam U17 won 2-0 in their first practice match in Japan against the youth team of Imabari Club. The 1-1 result in the second match showed selective progress under coach Cristiano Roland, especially in pressing and transition.
As planned, U17 Vietnam will play a final friendly match with U18 Ehime on November 13, before returning home to complete preparations for the 2026 U17 Asian Qualifiers.
