OFFICIAL: Vietnam U23 loses chance to win China CFA Team – Xi'an 2026 championship

With the loss to Thailand U23 in the second round, Vietnam U23 has lost its chance to claim the CFA Team China – Xi'an 2026 title.

On March 28 afternoon, Vietnam U23 entered their second match at the CFA Team China – Xi'an 2026 International Football Tournament, facing Thailand U23. Against an opponent considered stronger in experience and squad, Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh's players fought hard, gaining valuable lessons in the journey to refine the team for long-term goals.

Vietnam U23 lost minimally to Thailand U23 due to a goal scored in the 25th second of the match. This defeat means Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh's team officially loses the chance to win the tournament despite having one match left.

Specifically, after this win, Thailand U23 has 4 points, while in the other second-round match, North Korea U23 drew with China U23 1-1. Currently, these two teams each have 2 points, while Vietnam U23 only has 1 point. In the final round, Thailand U23 faces North Korea U23, and Vietnam U23 meets host China.

If Thailand U23 does not lose to North Korea U23, their championship chance will be very high with at least 5 points, whereas Vietnam U23, even if winning against China, would only have 4 points. Nevertheless, Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh's team will strive to achieve the best result in the final match for a graceful farewell to the tournament.

Although not achieving desired results, the match continues to offer professional value for Vietnam U23, especially in the context of a significantly rejuvenated squad. Through two matches, the coaching staff gains more basis for evaluation and squad selection, thereby refining the team for key goals like Asian Games 2026 and future international tournaments.

This tournament is identified by the coaching staff as an important opportunity to review the squad, enhance cohesion between lines, and improve gameplay. Notably, Vietnam U23 participates with a core of players born from 2005 onward, under 21 years old, aiming to prepare for Asian Games 2026 and important future missions.

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