Vietnam U23 vs. South Korea U23: A test of character and a new look for Kim Sang-sik's team.
Facing strong opponents U23 South Korea in the third-place match of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, U23 Vietnam will have to make significant personnel changes in defense in order to aim for the bronze medal.
Following their disappointing defeat to China U23 in the semi-finals, the Vietnam U23 team faces their final challenge at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship: the third-place match against South Korea U23. This is not just a medal match, but also a test of character for the groundbreaking changes in both personnel and playing style under the new coach.Kim Sang-sik.
A personnel revolution in the defense.
The most notable aspect of this match was the complete overhaul of the Vietnamese U23 team's defense. The absence of two key players was particularly significant.Nguyen Hieu MinhandPham Ly DucThis put coach Kim Sang-sik in a difficult position, forcing him to field a completely new defense to cope with the attacking power of South Korea.
For the first time in a major tournament, a trio of central defenders.Nhat Minh,Duc AnhandVan HaThey will stand side by side. While Nhật Minh is a familiar face, Đức Anh and Văn Hà are considered "newcomers" in the starting lineup. The pressure from the South Korean U23 strikers will be a high-stakes test of this trio's chemistry. If they maintain their composure, this is an opportunity for the young players to prove their worth in future campaigns.
Solving the problem of physical fitness and ball circulation.
One of the reasons for Vietnam U23's struggles in the semi-finals was a noticeable decline in physical fitness. After a series of five consecutive high-intensity matches, many key players showed signs of fatigue, leading to an inability to effectively move the ball forward. This affected attacking players like...Cong PhuonggoodLe PhatThey often find themselves in a state of isolation.
To remedy this, coach Kim Sang-sik plans to make tactical adjustments in the midfield and on the flanks. The appearance ofPhi HoangandAnh QuânThe two wing corridors are expected to bring a new lease of life thanks to their abundant physical fitness. In particular,Quoc CuongIt will act as a "transfer station," helping the team maintain tempo and escape pressing from the opponent's relentless style of play.
Psychological warfare and the burning desire for a Bronze Medal.
The third-place match is a battle of mental fortitude, as both teams have just experienced shocks in the semi-finals. While Vietnam U23 lost to China, South Korea U23 is also desperate for a win to relieve the pressure after their defeat against Japan. Discipline will be key; every player on the field needs to give more than 100% effort to share the burden with the defense, and the goalkeeper will also be crucial.Trung KienIt is necessary to maintain the highest level of concentration.
If they play tightly and make good use of the spaces, the Vietnam U23 team has every chance of launching sharp counter-attacks – a strength of the young players under the South Korean strategist. A victory or a fair match against a top-class opponent would be a strong affirmation of the maturity of this generation of players.
The bronze medal would be a well-deserved recognition for the tireless efforts of Coach Kim Sang-sik and his team. Fans are waiting for a resurgent performance so that the Vietnam U23 team can leave the tournament with a satisfied smile and faith in the future. Readers can find out more about...History of the U23 Asian Cup, a place that has traditionally been a breeding ground for talent and Olympic dreams in Asian football.
