Vietnam U17 women’s team secure spot at 2026 AFC U17 women’s Asian Cup after perfect qualifying run

The Vietnam U17 women’s team completed their qualifying campaign in style with a narrow 1-0 win against Hong Kong (China), securing a perfect record of two wins from two matches. With this result, coach Okiyama Masahiko and his players officially earned a spot at the 2026 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup, scheduled to take place from April 30 to May 17, 2026.

Speaking to the media after the match, coach Okiyama Masahiko could not hide his pride in his young squad. “First of all, we achieved two wins and accomplished our goal of qualifying for the finals,” he said. “The team showed great concentration and managed to keep clean sheets in both matches. I’m very proud of the players’ spirit, effort, and unity throughout the campaign.”

The only goal of the decisive match was scored by Hai Yen (No. 13), who shared her emotions after helping Vietnam reach the finals. “I’m so happy that our team has advanced to the next round,” she said. “Everyone prepared very well and gave their best effort. Sometimes we didn’t fully understand each other’s movements, but we kept communicating to improve our coordination in attack, and that led to the winning goal.”

Hai Yen also revealed what coach Okiyama Masahiko told the players during the halftime break: “He told us that if we keep trying, we can do it. He reminded us to never give up and to stay united. We had many opportunities but couldn’t convert them all. I’m proud to have scored the goal that secured our victory.”

Reflecting on the team’s growth, Hai Yen credited their training camp in Germany as an important experience that helped the players mature both technically and mentally. “From the start of our training, the whole team set the goal of qualifying for the finals. The trip to Germany taught us a lot, especially from playing against older and stronger opponents,” she shared. “After this tournament, we’ll return to our clubs and continue to work hard to improve ourselves and overcome our weaknesses before the next national team call-up.”

The qualification marks another milestone for Vietnam’s women’s football development program under Japanese coach Okiyama Masahiko, who has emphasized discipline, tactical awareness, and collective spirit. With a strong foundation of young talents like Hai Yen and her teammates, the Vietnam U17 women’s team will aim to continue their progress and make a mark at the 2026 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup.