Vietnam confident ahead of U23 Asian Cup quarter-final clash with UAE
VOV.VN - Vietnam’s head coach Kim Sang-sik and team captain have expressed confidence and determination ahead of their AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 quarter-final against the United Arab Emirates.
The match will kick off at 10:30 p.m. (Vietnam time) on January 16 at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, UAE.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Saudi Arabia on January 15, Kim described the quarter-final as a “major challenge” but said he was confident in his team after an impressive group-stage performance, where Vietnam won all three matches to finish top of Group A.
He highlighted Vietnam’s disciplined organisation, quick transitions and high-intensity approach as key strengths that could help them compete with the physically strong West Asian side.
The UAE have good pace, physical strength and individual quality, but he said he believes Vietnam’s tactical discipline and collective play can make the difference.
Team captain Khuat Van Khang echoed his coach’s confidence, saying the squad are fully focused and determined to make history at the tournament.
Meanwhile, UAE head coach Marcelo Broli praised Vietnam’s form, saying he had watched all three of their group-stage matches and found no obvious weaknesses. He added that his team would approach the game with maximum determination to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Historically, the UAE hold a superior head-to-head record against Vietnam, including heavy victories in two recent friendly matches. However, Vietnam have shown significant progress under Kim in recent years.
Vietnam ended the group stage with a perfect nine points and the tournament’s highest scoring efficiency, while the UAE advanced to the quarter-finals as Group B runners-up after their 1-1 draw with Syria.
The Asian Football Confederation has appointed Iranian referee Payam Heydari to officiate the match. Heydari previously took charge of a Vietnam game in the group stage, a factor seen as potentially boosting the team’s confidence.
Vietnam stun hosts Saudi Arabia to reach U23 Asian Cup quarter-finals
VOV.VN - Vietnam pulled off a major upset at the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, defeating tournament hosts Saudi Arabia 1-0 in their final group-stage match early on January 13 to secure a place in the quarter-finals with a perfect record.
