Vietnam’s U23 national team secured a 3‑2 victory over the United Arab Emirates after extra time on 16 January 2026, clinching a place in the Asian U23 Championship semi‑finals. The match, played at 22:30 local time, featured a dramatic back‑and‑forth battle, with the winning goal coming from Đình Bắc in the final minutes of extra time.
Thrilling 120‑Minute Battle
Key Moments and Scoring Summary
Both sides opened aggressively, with Vietnam taking an early lead after a well‑crafted move inside the box. The UAE responded quickly, equalising before halftime. The remainder of regular time saw four alternating goals, leaving the score tied at 2‑2 and forcing extra time. In the decisive period, Đình Bắc exploited a defensive lapse to net the winning goal, sealing the 3‑2 result.
Road to the Semi‑Finals
Under coach Kim Sang‑sik, Vietnam U23 has progressed steadily from the qualifying stage, defeating strong opponents such as Iraq and South Korea. Their consistent improvement marks a significant rise in the team’s Asian standing and sets the stage for deeper runs in upcoming tournaments, including the 2026 Asian Games and the U‑20 World Cup.
Future Challenges
The next round pits Vietnam against a formidable opponent, likely Saudi Arabia. To succeed, the team must build on lessons learned: maintaining leads, capitalising on limited chances, and tightening defensive concentration during critical moments. Enhanced shooting accuracy and disciplined defending will be essential against a technically adept Saudi side.
Impact on Vietnamese Football
This triumph highlights the effectiveness of Vietnam’s youth development programs and the growing commercial appeal of its football. Over two million viewers tuned in across television and online platforms, demonstrating strong market potential for future sponsorships and infrastructure investment.
Conclusion
After a gripping 120‑minute encounter, Vietnam U23 proved they belong among Asia’s elite by advancing to the semi‑finals. With determination, tactical growth, and the experience gained from this win, the team is well‑positioned to continue its historic ascent on the continental stage.
