U22 Vietnam national football team departed for China today to compete in the CFA Team China 2025 international tournament, a key step in their preparation for the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers and the 33rd SEA Games.
Led by acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh, the 25-player squad is set to face tough competition from U22 teams of South Korea, Uzbekistan, and host nation China. This marks Vietnam’s second consecutive appearance at the prestigious event, following their debut in 2024.
The tournament, running from March 20 to 25, is seen as a vital “trial by fire” for Coach Dinh Hong Vinh and his players. U22 Vietnam will kick off their campaign against U22 South Korea on March 20, followed by a clash with U22 Uzbekistan on March 23, and conclude with a match against U22 China on March 25. These encounters promise to test the team’s mettle against some of Asia’s strongest youth squads, offering invaluable experience for their upcoming regional and continental challenges.
This year’s CFA Team China tournament is more than just a test of skill—it’s a cornerstone of the Vietnam Football Federation’s (VFF) long-term strategy. With the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers slated for September and the SEA Games in Thailand scheduled for December, the VFF has prioritized early preparation to ensure the team is in peak form. “This is a deliberate plan to build a strong foundation,” said a VFF spokesperson. “Facing top-tier opponents now will sharpen our players and align them with our broader goals.”
Under the guidance of acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh, the team has been training with a clear focus on continuity and cohesion. “We maintain close coordination with head coach Kim Sang Sik,” Dinh Hong Vinh explained. “Our training plans and drills are synchronized with the senior national team to ensure a consistent philosophy across both squads. This tournament is crucial for enhancing player quality and integrating them into our unified approach.” The synergy between the senior and U22 teams reflects Vietnam’s ambition to create a seamless pipeline of talent.
The 25-man roster blends emerging stars with players eager to prove themselves on the international stage. While specific names were not disclosed, the squad is expected to include promising talents who have already caught the eye in domestic leagues and youth competitions. For many, this trip to China represents a chance to gain critical match experience and adapt to high-pressure scenarios—skills that will be essential when they face the rigors of the U23 qualifiers and SEA Games later this year.
Last year’s CFA Team China outing provided U22 Vietnam with a mixed bag of results but invaluable lessons. In 2024, they competed against China, Uzbekistan, and Malaysia, finishing with one win and two losses under Dinh Hong Vinh’s leadership. That experience has fueled their determination to improve this time around. “We learned a lot last year,” said a team official. “The players know what’s at stake and are ready to step up.”
The upcoming matches will pit Vietnam against formidable foes. U22 South Korea, despite not fielding their strongest lineup, remains a technical and tactical challenge. U22 Uzbekistan brings physicality and flair, fresh off strong showings in youth tournaments, while host U22 China, under coach Antonio, boasts a squad bolstered by players from the recent U20 Asian Championship. Each game offers a unique test, pushing Vietnam to refine their strategies and resilience.
For Coach Dinh Hong Vinh, the focus is on growth as much as results. “Every minute on the pitch is a chance to improve,” he said. “We’re not just here to compete—we’re here to evolve.” As the team settles into their base in Jiangsu, China, anticipation is building among fans back home. With live broadcasts expected, supporters will be watching closely as U22 Vietnam takes on Asia’s best, aiming to lay the groundwork for a triumphant 2025.
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