Vietnam U17 team wins all matches, ready to battle Malaysia for the top spot.
After defeating Macau U17 (China) 4-0 to extend their streak of four clean sheets and reach 12 points, Vietnam U17 are preparing thoroughly for their final match on November 30th; Coach Cristiano Roland warns against Malaysia U17's set-piece tactics.
Vietnam U17 defeated Macau U17 (China) 4-0 to maintain their perfect winning streak after 4 matches, reaching 12 points and a goal difference of +26, 6 points ahead of Malaysia U17. Ahead of the final Group C match of the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup qualifiers on November 30th, coach Cristiano Roland emphasized that the team will prepare thoroughly and consider this a "final match".
“As planned, the players performed well and achieved the goal. All 23 players are always ready to play at any time thanks to their good physical condition and sound tactical awareness. We haven't conceded a single goal after 4 matches and hope that continues when we face U17 Malaysia,” said coach Cristiano Roland after the victory against U17 Macau (China).
The "final" match and the dead-ball problem.
The coach stated that the entire team will enhance their focus and discipline when facing U17 Malaysia. “As with other matches, the team will prepare and thoroughly research the opponent. The coaching staff will provide detailed information so that the players understand their upcoming opponent better. This is like a final match. I will prepare my players as well as possible. U17 Vietnam will enter the final match in the best and most disciplined way.”
Mr. Roland specifically noted the set-piece situations that the U17 Malaysia team had effectively exploited in previous matches. He also urged fans to show their support: “I hope that in the match against Malaysia, a large crowd will come to the stadium to cheer us on. This Sunday will be a special match. If we can fill the stands, the U17 Vietnam team will be given extra strength and confidence to enter the game.”
Rotate to maintain energy, discipline to keep the sheet clean.
With a packed schedule (5 matches in 10 days), coach Cristiano Roland emphasized that no one can be a starter throughout, therefore the readiness of the 23 players is crucial. The way they organize their movement, provide cover, and adhere to tactical plans is helping the Vietnam U17 team maintain four clean sheets.
Midfielder Duy Khang – who made his first start and opened the scoring – shared: “I am very happy to have contributed to the victory. The coach always reminds us that no one can start five matches in ten days, so the whole team must always be ready. When given the opportunity, we remind each other to give our all for the team.”
Key statistics and the standings in Group C.
- Vietnam U17 4-0 Macau U17 (China): 10 wins out of 4 matches, 12 points, goal difference +26.
- Vietnam U17 kept a clean sheet in 4 consecutive matches.
- Malaysia U17 defeated Singapore U17 2-1 in matchday 4.
- Hong Kong (China) U17 defeated Northern Mariana Islands U17 4-0.
- Vietnam U17 currently has a six-point lead over Malaysia U17 ahead of their final match on November 30th.
The final score before kick-off.
With their physical fitness, sensible rotation, and tactical discipline demonstrated, the Vietnam U17 team entered their final match against Malaysia U17 aiming to maintain their defensive standards and effectiveness at both ends of the field. The top spot in the group would be decided after 90 minutes, and a reminder about set-piece situations was a priority for coach Cristiano Roland and his team in their preparation.
