U22 Vietnam beat China 1-0, challenging Uzbekistan

Pham Minh Phuc's 80th-minute goal helped U22 Vietnam defeat host U22 China 1-0 in Chengdu on the evening of November 12, opening a favorable start at the 2025 Panda Cup. This result temporarily placed coach Dinh Hong Vinh and his team in second place on the rankings and created confidence before the match against U22 Uzbekistan at 2:30 p.m. on November 15.

The decisive moment in the 80th minute

In a tense and physically exhausting match, U22 Vietnam found a moment to explode. In the 80th minute, from Le Van Thuan's precise cross, Pham Minh Phuc chose a smart position and then coolly finished, scoring the only goal of the match. A neat decision, requiring both alertness and courage at a sensitive moment.

Gameplay and organization

Right after the opening whistle, U22 Vietnam faced great pressure and the fierce pressing style of U22 China. Coach Dinh Hong Vinh's team kept their composure, maintained a tight formation, defended disciplinedly and was ready to counterattack when there was space.

In the second half, despite their reduced physical strength, U22 Vietnam still maintained tactical discipline, blocking the space in front of the goal and waiting for the opportunity. The late goal was a reward for their perseverance and reasonable tempo control in a high-pressure away match.

Post-match reactions and physical factors

On the Chinese U22 side, player Hu Hetao admitted that the defeat was the responsibility of the whole team and said that the physical strength in the last 20 minutes made the difference. This comment matched the development: U22 Vietnam persistently maintained the formation distance and took advantage of the final moment of the match to strike the decisive blow.

Opponent U22 Uzbekistan perspective

Uzbekistan U22 lost 0-2 to South Korea in the opening match but are still a formidable opponent. They brought a young force (mostly born in 2005-2006), distinguished by a strong, disciplined playing style and physical advantage. This team is dangerous in aerial situations and fast counter-attacks, posing a high test of concentration and ability to compete for all opponents.

Preparation plan and long-term goals

U22 Vietnam has 1 day to review the opening match and prepare tactics for the confrontation with the West Asian team. The biggest goal during the training session is still to consolidate the force, perfect the playing style towards the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship Finals.

Selected statistics