Hanoi, 2 October 2025 – Vietnamese fans are filled with anticipation after the official draw for the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 placed the team in a challenging but promising group alongside Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Kyrgyzstan.
The draw took place on October 2 at the AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. According to the results, U23 Vietnam will compete in Group A, where host nation Saudi Arabia – champions in 2022 and one of the tournament favorites – pose the toughest challenge. The group also includes Jordan, a side with solid continental experience, and Kyrgyzstan, who are making their debut in the tournament.
Elsewhere, defending champions Japan headline Group B with Qatar, UAE, and Syria. Group C features 2018 winners Uzbekistan, 2020 champions South Korea, Iran, and debutants Lebanon. Group D consists of 2013 winners Iraq, Australia, Thailand, and China.
The AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 will run from January 6 to 24 in Saudi Arabia, bringing together 16 teams divided into four groups. Each group will play in a single round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the quarterfinals.
This marks the sixth consecutive appearance for U23 Vietnam in the continental finals. The team secured qualification with a perfect record in the group stage, defeating Bangladesh, Singapore, and Yemen. This achievement reinforces Vietnam’s rising profile in Asian football and continues the momentum built since their historic runner-up finish in 2018.
Group A is expected to be tightly contested. While Saudi Arabia are widely regarded as favorites thanks to their status as hosts and past champions, Jordan and Kyrgyzstan both earned top spots in their qualifying groups, signaling strong form heading into the tournament.
Kyrgyzstan, though debuting at the U23 Asian Cup, impressed in the qualifiers and are seen as a potential dark horse. However, the group remains within reach for Vietnam. Aside from Saudi Arabia, the remaining three teams appear evenly matched, creating opportunities for Kim Sang Sik’s men.
Historically, U23 Vietnam hold an advantage, having already reached the continental final in 2018. Jordan’s best performance came in 2013 when they finished third, while Kyrgyzstan have yet to feature on this stage.
Vietnam’s schedule may also play in their favor. The team will first face Jordan, then Kyrgyzstan, before concluding the group stage against Saudi Arabia. If both Vietnam and Saudi Arabia secure positive results in their opening two matches, the final showdown could be approached with greater tactical flexibility.
Still, the challenge is significant. Teams from West Asia are known for their physical strength, height, and stamina. For Vietnam to advance, they will need meticulous tactical preparation, sharper finishing, and strong mental resilience. With careful planning and the support of fans, U23 Vietnam will aim not only to pass the group stage but also to write another memorable chapter in their Asian Cup journey.
Hong Phuc
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