U23 Vietnam successes reflect discipline belief and a growing football identity

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam U23 completed an impressive campaign at the AFC U23 Championship, defeating several continental heavyweights, including U23 South Korea, to win a bronze medal and claim the tournament’s top scorer award through Dinh Bac.

Kim Sang-sik, head coach of Vietnam U23, spoke to The Hanoi Times about the journey, expressing pride in his players and confirming that strong U23 performers remain firmly in contention for the senior national team.

How do you feel after winning the bronze medal and how did the team prepare for such a demanding tournament?

The schedule was intense and the challenges were many, but the players fought to the final minutes. I am very proud of them.

We entered the tournament under pressure after the 33rd SEA Games, with little recovery time before a training camp in Qatar.

The coaching staff closely assessed each player’s condition to design suitable fitness plans and tactics. The players showed commitment, followed instructions and met our expectations.

Which opponent proved the toughest at the tournament?

In the group stage, U23 Saudi Arabia posed the biggest challenge. They combined technique, physical strength and home advantage, which created heavy pressure.

Matches against U23 Jordan and U23 Kyrgyzstan were must-win games, which actually reduced pressure because the objective was clear.

Against Saudi Arabia, playing for a draw increased tension. When players focus too much on results, it becomes harder to play freely.

We prepared carefully for all scenarios and entered the quarterfinals ready. Dinh Bac’s goal to make it 2–1 against U23 UAE was a special moment.

What went wrong in the semifinal loss to U23 China?

Before the match, I felt confident in our preparation. During the game, the team lost rhythm after Hieu Minh had to leave the field, which led to the defeat.

I understand the disappointment, as a win would have been historic. The result fell short and I feel deep regret.

How did you prepare for the bronze-medal match against U23 South Korea?

It was a special match for me, but once kickoff came, I focused fully on U23 Vietnam.

We made personnel changes. Alongside regular starters like Dinh Bac and Thai Son, players such as Duc Anh and Van Ha earned opportunities based on training performances.

The players fought to exhaustion, dealing with cramps and muscle strains, especially with limited options at center back.

South Korea had advantages in speed and physicality. We stressed discipline, compact shape and tight marking, especially on set pieces. Despite conceding late, the team pushed to penalties and won.

What mattered most was the players’ fighting spirit until the final whistle.

Which moment left the strongest impression on you?

After the SEA Games, recovery became our priority. Against strong opponents, physical and mental readiness decided outcomes.

The most painful moment was Hieu Minh’s injury. Against South Korea, after Dinh Bac’s red card, extra time felt endless.

I told the players to stay calm, treat it like training and trust themselves through the shootout.

What decided Vietnam’s success against physically strong West Asian teams?

The players never backed down. They believed they belonged at this level.

Our strength was unity and discipline. We stayed compact, kept our shape and covered for each other. Set pieces were crucial. Despite our size disadvantage, we marked tightly and competed with full commitment.

Fitness mattered. Training combined conditioning and tactics, with emphasis on upper-body strength.

Against high pressing teams, we prepared clear solutions. Players like Van Khang, Minh Phuc, Le Phat and Thanh Nhan attacked space behind defenses, giving the team balance and confidence.

How will these players be developed and who is ready for the national team?

There is no single standout. This achievement came from collective effort and I have high expectations for this group.

Experience from the SEA Games and the AFC U23 Championship has put many players in contention for the national team.

Players such as Dinh Bac and Van Khang have strong potential, though Dinh Bac will miss the March match against Malaysia due to suspension.

Looking ahead, the federation and I will build a long-term roadmap, including World Cup goals. U23 Vietnam have shown they can compete at continental level. The national team door remains open.

As players return to the V-League, I hope they continue to prove themselves. Any U23 player who performs well can earn a call-up.

What message would you like to send fans ahead of Tet?

Seeing fans fill the streets with red flags and yellow stars was deeply motivating.

I wish all Vietnamese fans good health, a warm and joyful New Year with family and continued support for Vietnamese football. Happy New Year.

Thank you for your time!