Japan, 11 November 2025 – U17 Vietnam national team continued their preparation for the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers with a solid 1-1 draw against Matsuyama University on the afternoon of November 11 (local time), in their second friendly match during the training camp in Japan.
As part of their ongoing training camp in Japan, the U17 Vietnam team faced Matsuyama University in a friendly match aimed at testing tactics and evaluating player performance ahead of the upcoming AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Despite facing an older and more experienced opponent, the young Vietnamese players demonstrated determination and tactical progress to secure a 1-1 draw.
Head coach Cristiano Roland made several changes to his starting lineup compared to the previous match, focusing on squad rotation and experimentation. Tuan Vu started in goal, with Minh Cuong, Manh Cuong, Dang Khoa, and Anh Hao forming the defensive line. The midfield included Tri Dung, Duy Khang, Minh Loi, Van Nam, and Sy Bach, while Long Nhat led the attack as the main striker.
With so many personnel changes and facing a physically stronger and more experienced opponent, U17 Vietnam struggled to settle in during the opening minutes. However, after the first 15 minutes, the team gradually found their rhythm, pressing high and building possession more confidently.
In the first half, Vietnam created two notable scoring opportunities, but both Sy Bach and Hiep Dai Viet were denied by the Matsuyama goalkeeper. The second half saw a more dynamic Vietnamese side, with tactical adjustments and substitutions paying off. In the 52nd minute, after a composed piece of play to evade pressure, Duy Khang threaded a precise through ball for Manh Quan, who coolly finished to give Vietnam a 1-0 lead.
However, Matsuyama University quickly responded, equalizing from the penalty spot just a few minutes later. Coach Cristiano Roland continued to rotate the lineup, giving valuable playing time to more players and testing different tactical setups. The match ended 1-1 — a fair result reflecting a balanced and competitive contest.
According to the team’s schedule, U17 Vietnam will play their final friendly match of the Japan training camp against U18 Ehime on November 13, before returning home to complete their final preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
Khai Minh
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