Chengdu, 15 November 2025 – Despite a 0-1 defeat to U22 Uzbekistan in their second match at the Panda Cup 2025, acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh praised U22 Vietnam’s fighting spirit and believes the positive signs in the second half will be an important foundation for the final match against U22 Korea.
U22 Vietnam suffered a 0-1 loss to U22 Uzbekistan in their second match at the CFA Team China – Panda Cup 2025 on the afternoon of November 15. Conceding in the fourth minute placed the team in a difficult position, but under acting head coach Dinh Hong Vinh, the players showed strong determination and resilience, especially in the second half, creating confidence ahead of the final match against U22 Korea.
Speaking after the match, Coach Dinh Hong Vinh praised the effort of his players: “Today, the team played with determination and discipline. We faced a very strong opponent with good structure and extensive international experience. Even after conceding early, the players stayed calm, adjusted well, and gradually found their rhythm. I’m satisfied with their attitude and effort, though we still need to improve in the final decisions and in maintaining pressing intensity.”
The early goal disrupted U22 Vietnam’s plans, but according to Coach Vinh, the team remained composed:
“An early goal always changes things, but what mattered was that we stayed stable and did not get dragged into their tempo. We stuck to our tactical intentions with some adjustments in pressing and ball progression. I appreciate the team’s composure.”
In the second half, U22 Vietnam played with far more control and created several notable chances, including a powerful header from Ngoc My that hit the crossbar. However, the lack of precision in key moments prevented the team from finding an equalizer.
Coach Vinh continued: “We created some good chances but lacked accuracy in the decisive moments. This is an international friendly tournament, and our primary goal is to build the squad, evaluate players, and accumulate experience ahead of major tournaments. The team will review the match to improve further.”
U22 Vietnam will face U22 Korea on November 18 in their final match at the Panda Cup 2025. This match is expected to provide more valuable evaluation opportunities before the team returns home and moves to Ho Chi Minh City to prepare for the 33rd SEA Games.
Commenting on the upcoming opponent, Coach Vinh said:
“U22 Korea are the strongest team in the tournament. They move a lot, have good pace, and play a very modern style. We will analyze today’s match, consider each player’s fitness, and make suitable adjustments. Our aim is to remain organized, maintain compact spacing, and improve the quality of our final actions. We will also give playing time to those who need more minutes for overall squad assessment.”
Despite the defeat, U22 Vietnam’s strong response, tactical discipline, and fighting spirit offer clear encouragement as they prepare for their toughest challenge yet at Panda Cup 2025.
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