China, 20 September, 2025 – Vietnam’s national futsal team made a dream start to their 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a resounding 9-1 victory over Hong Kong on the afternoon of September 20.
Facing a lower-ranked opponent, head coach Diego Giustozzi’s side quickly asserted dominance, dictating the pace of the match with relentless attacking pressure. The breakthrough came early, and the goals continued to flow throughout the first half.
Within the opening minutes, Doan Phat, Thinh Phat, and Gia Hung all found the net to give Vietnam a comfortable 3-0 lead. Hong Kong struggled to cope with the home side’s high pressing and sharp finishing. By the closing stages of the first half, Da Hai and Duc Hoa added two more goals, sealing a commanding 5-0 advantage at the interval.
After the break, Hong Kong surprised the crowd by pushing higher up the court, and their efforts were rewarded when Lee Ho Yin scored to make it 1-5. However, their joy was short-lived. Just seconds later, Minh Quang restored Vietnam’s five-goal cushion with a composed strike.
The momentum remained firmly with Vietnam, especially after Hong Kong’s Chow Ka Lok Leo received a red card midway through the second half. Playing with a man advantage, Vietnam capitalized immediately as Minh Quang struck again, stretching the scoreline to 7-1.
As the match drew to a close, the hosts showed no signs of easing off. Manh Dung got on the scoresheet before Minh Quang completed his hat-trick, sealing a 9-1 demolition and sending a strong message to their Group E rivals.
Coach Giustozzi will be pleased with the way his players executed the game plan, combining solid defensive organization with clinical finishing. The big win not only boosts Vietnam’s confidence but also provides them with a valuable goal difference advantage, which could prove crucial in the race for qualification.
Vietnam will face sterner challenges ahead in Group E, with fixtures against China and Lebanon still to come. Both sides are considered stronger opponents compared to Hong Kong, but Vietnam’s comprehensive performance in the opener offers optimism. The blend of experienced campaigners like Duc Hoa with emerging talents such as Minh Quang and Gia Hung highlights the squad’s growing depth.
The victory also reflects the progress under Giustozzi, who has consistently emphasized physical intensity and tactical discipline since taking charge. With their ambitions set firmly on reaching the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 finals, Vietnam could not have asked for a better start.
Vietnam will meet China in their next match on September 22 before concluding the group stage against Lebanon on September 24.
Quynh Phuong
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