Saudi Arabia, 18 January 2026 – Vietnam U23 will face China U23 in the semi-finals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 on January 20, with history slightly favoring the Southeast Asian side despite the challenge posed by an in-form Chinese team.
Vietnam U23 are set to take on China U23 in the semi-final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 at 22:30 on January 20, in a match drawing major attention as both teams arrive with strong momentum and growing confidence. This clash marks a historic moment for China U23, who reached the last four for the first time after edging Uzbekistan U23 in a dramatic penalty shootout in the quarter-finals.
Looking at head-to-head records, Vietnam U23 (including U22/U23 level) have enjoyed a clear advantage over China U23 over the past decade. Since 2016, the two sides have met five times in international friendlies, with Vietnam winning two matches, drawing two, and losing only once. Notably, both Vietnamese victories came on Chinese soil, underlining their ability to perform under pressure away from home.
One of the most memorable encounters occurred in 2019, when Vietnam U22, led by then coach Park Hang Seo, stunned China U22 with a 2–0 victory in Wuhan, thanks to a brace from Nguyen Tien Linh. More recently, at the Panda Cup 2025, Vietnam U22 once again defeated China U22 1–0, with Pham Minh Phuc scoring the decisive goal.
Despite this positive historical record, head coach Kim Sang-sik and his players are well aware that the semi-final will be anything but straightforward. China U23 have impressed at the 2026 tournament with a disciplined defensive approach and sharp counter-attacking play. They remain unbeaten defensively so far, conceding no goals, largely thanks to the outstanding performances of goalkeeper Li Hao.
Speaking ahead of the semi-final, Li Hao expressed strong confidence in his team’s ambitions. “Right now, I am very happy. Before every match, our goal is always to win. The next match against Vietnam U23 is no different — we will go out aiming for victory,” the Chinese goalkeeper said.
With Vietnam carrying historical confidence and China bringing tournament solidity and belief, the semi-final promises to be a tense and tactical contest. The match between Vietnam U23 and China U23 will kick off at 22:30 on January 20, with a place in the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 at stake.
Van Cuong
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