Summer Symphony: The Journey of Vietnamese Youth Football at the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup

In the 90+3rd minute, when the referee blew the final whistle, the faces of the U23 Vietnam players were covered in sweat but their eyes sparkled with pride. In the stands of Khalifa Stadium, thousands of Vietnamese fans erupted in cheers. That was the historic moment when U23 Vietnam defeated U23 Iraq 3-2 in the quarter-final, securing a spot in the semi-finals of the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. But this journey did not begin with that match, but long before, from quiet training sessions under the blazing summer sun at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center. The context of this year's tournament was particularly harsh. U23 Vietnam was placed in Group D alongside U23 Uzbekistan, U23 Kuwait, and U23 Malaysia. Before the tournament, few had faith in coach Philippe Troussier's squad, as the team was almost completely rejuvenated compared to the previous golden generation. However, through each match, the high-pressing and ball-control style gradually took shape. The opening match saw a 2-0 win over U23 Kuwait, followed by a 1-1 draw with U23 Malaysia, and a 2-1 victory over U23 Uzbekistan in the decisive match to top the group. The numbers speak volumes: U23 Vietnam averaged 58% ball possession, 87% passing accuracy, and created 12 scoring chances per match. The core of coach Troussier's tactics was the flexibility between the 3-4-3 and 4-3-3 formations. The midfield trio of Nguyen Thai Son, Khue Van Khang, and Nguyen Duc Phu operated like a machine, both supporting defense and joining attacks. Notably, Nguyen Thai Son, with his game-reading ability and accurate long passes, became the conductor in fast counter-attacks. Statistics show he had 4 assists and 2 goals in 5 matches, with a 91% pass completion rate. Meanwhile, defender Bui Hoang Viet Anh showed rare composure, with 28 successful tackles and 15 clearances, helping the defense concede only 3 goals. However, from a contrarian perspective, romanticizing this journey may hide potential weaknesses. U23 Vietnam faced great difficulties against physically superior teams like U23 Iraq or U23 Uzbekistan. In the quarter-final, despite leading 2-0, the team allowed the opponent to equalize 2-2 within 15 minutes of the second half, before winning thanks to a decisive goal in stoppage time. This shows that the ability to maintain control and manage the game remains an unsolved problem. Additionally, the physical condition of young players is a big question mark as they had to play every 3 days in the hot Qatari weather. Looking to the future, the success of U23 Vietnam in this tournament is not just a temporary result. It reflects years of systematic investment in youth training systems, with football academies like PVF, HAGL Arsenal JMG, and VFF training centers. The emergence of 19-20 year old players like Nguyen Quoc Viet, Nguyen Van Truong, and Ho Van Cuong shows an abundant talent pool. However, to maintain momentum, there needs to be a close connection between V-League clubs and youth teams, avoiding the situation where young players do not get regular playing time at club level. This summer symphony is not over yet. U23 Vietnam will enter the semi-final against U23 South Korea – a strong opponent with many players playing in Europe. Whatever the result, what coach Troussier's team has achieved in Qatar has written a new chapter for Vietnamese youth football. The crown when it falls never breaks, it only rolls toward the next person. And this generation, with the confidence and resilience that has been forged, will surely go even further. The stage is empty, but I can still hear the applause of those at home – millions of Vietnamese hearts are directed towards them.