Viet Tri, 31 August 2026 – Vietnam U20 endured a disappointing start to their AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign, suffering a 3-0 defeat to North Korea U20 in their opening Group C match and leaving themselves with a difficult path toward qualification.
Both teams started the contest at a high tempo, but North Korea quickly demonstrated their physical strength, pace and aggression in individual duels. Their high pressing made it difficult for Vietnam to build comfortably from the back, although Yutaka Ikeuchi’s side still managed to create several promising moments during the opening half.
Vietnam goalkeeper Xuan Tin was called into action in the 21st minute, producing consecutive saves to deny dangerous efforts from Ri Kang Rim and Kim Hyon Jun.
At the other end, Vietnam had an opportunity to break the deadlock in the 34th minute when Nguyen Le Phat found space for a header inside the penalty area, but he was unable to direct his effort on target.
Neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval, with the first half ending goalless.
The complexion of the match changed almost immediately after the restart as North Korea raised the tempo and capitalized on defensive problems in the Vietnamese back line.
In the 46th minute, Kim Yu Jin exploited space in Vietnam’s defence before finishing past Xuan Tin to give North Korea a 1-0 lead.
The hosts were dealt another major blow only four minutes later.
After Vietnam’s defence failed to stop Pak Kwang Song from driving into the penalty area, Xuan Tin was unable to hold the resulting effort. Ri Hyok Gwang reacted quickest to the loose ball and converted from close range to double North Korea’s advantage.
Ikeuchi immediately responded with personnel changes and instructed his players to push further forward in search of a way back into the contest. However, Vietnam struggled to create clear openings against a disciplined and well-organized North Korean defence.
North Korea then effectively put the match beyond reach in the 58th minute.
Kim Yu Jin used his pace to get beyond Dinh Quang Kiet before producing a composed finish past Xuan Tin, scoring his second goal of the match and extending the lead to 3-0.
Vietnam continued to push forward during the closing stages but could not find a way through their opponents’ defensive structure.
Le Phat had one final opportunity from a free kick in the 90th minute, but his effort sailed over the crossbar.
The final whistle confirmed a 3-0 defeat for Vietnam U20, a frustrating opening result for Ikeuchi’s side in their AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign.
With no points from their first Group C fixture, Vietnam now face considerable pressure in their remaining matches as they attempt to keep their hopes of reaching the AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 finals alive.
VSN/RPT
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