Chengdu, 12 November 2025 – U22 Vietnam started their campaign at the CFA Team China – Panda Cup 2025 in Chengdu (China) with an impressive 1-0 victory over the hosts U22 China, thanks to a decisive second-half strike from Pham Minh Phuc.
On the evening of November 12, at Chengdu Shuangliu Sport Center Stadium, U22 Vietnam made a strong start to the Panda Cup 2025 by defeating hosts U22 China 1-0 in a disciplined and determined performance. The only goal of the match came in the 80th minute from substitute Pham Minh Phuc, securing a valuable opening win for coach Dinh Hong Vinh’s squad.
Vietnam began confidently, creating the first chance just three minutes into the game, though their finishing lacked the precision to trouble the Chinese goalkeeper. After a brief spell of pressure from the home team, U22 China gradually found their rhythm and launched several dangerous attacks.
Goalkeeper Cao Van Binh was a standout performer, producing a series of crucial saves to keep Vietnam level, including a spectacular diving stop in the 17th minute from Wang Bohao’s powerful strike.
Toward the end of the first half, Vietnam began regaining control and carving out clearer opportunities. Forward Nguyen Thanh Nhan came close to scoring from a tight angle but was denied by the Chinese goalkeeper, while Khuat Van Khang’s curling effort narrowly missed the post moments later.
In the second half, coach Dinh Hong Vinh made key tactical adjustments, introducing Le Van Thuan and Pham Minh Phuc. The substitution proved decisive. In the 80th minute, from a quick attack down the left wing, Van Thuan skillfully beat his marker before delivering a dangerous cross. Defender Wang Shiqin mistimed his clearance, allowing Minh Phuc to pounce and fire home from close range, putting U22 Vietnam ahead 1-0.
Despite late pressure from U22 China, the Vietnamese defense remained composed and organized. Cao Van Binh continued to impress with confident aerial claims and well-timed interventions, helping his team preserve the clean sheet until the final whistle.
With this victory, U22 Vietnam temporarily sit second in the standings after the opening round, trailing U22 South Korea, who lead on goal difference following their 2-0 win over U22 Uzbekistan earlier in the day.
According to the schedule, U22 Vietnam will next face U22 South Korea on November 15, before meeting U22 Uzbekistan on November 18. The Panda Cup 2025 serves as an important preparation tournament for the team ahead of the 33rd SEA Games and the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Finals.
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