Vietnam knock out hosts Indonesia at AFF U17 Championship 2026

Indonesia, 19 April 2026 – Vietnam U17 held Indonesia U17 to a 0–0 draw in the final Group A match of the 2026 AFF U17 Championship on April 19, a result that sent the hosts crashing out at the group stage.

Heading into the final round, Vietnam led Group A with six points, three clear of both Indonesia and Malaysia. Coach Cristiano Roland’s side only needed to avoid defeat to secure top spot and would have been eliminated only if they lost by an eight-goal margin. In contrast, Indonesia were under pressure to win to keep their hopes alive.

With a comfortable position, Vietnam rotated their squad. Compared to the 10–0 win over Timor-Leste three days earlier, three changes were made, while the core lineup remained intact, including goalkeeper Ly Xuan Hoa, captain Nguyen Huynh Dang Khoa, Chu Ngoc Nguyen Luc, and Le Trong Dai Nhan.

Despite intense pressure from the home crowd, Vietnam stayed composed defensively and denied Indonesia any clear scoring opportunities. Going forward, Vietnam created more chances but lacked clinical finishing. In the 23rd minute, Van Duong tested the Indonesian goalkeeper with a low shot, while later he missed narrowly inside the box. Early in the second half, Nguyen Luc also came close but failed to beat the keeper from close range.

The goalless draw was enough for Vietnam to finish top of Group A with a perfect defensive record, having previously defeated Malaysia 4–0 and Timor-Leste 10–0. Meanwhile, Indonesia were eliminated at the group stage for the first time after four consecutive appearances.

In the semi-finals on April 22, Vietnam will face Group C winners Australia. The other semi-final will see Laos (Group B winners) take on Malaysia, the best second-placed team.

The AFF U16/U17 Championship, first held in 2002, is now in its 17th edition. Vietnam are among the most successful teams in the tournament’s history, with three titles (2006, 2010, 2017), two runner-up finishes, and multiple deep runs, continuing their strong record of reaching the knockout stage in recent years.

VSN/RPT