U23 Vietnam: After glory is there hope?

Absolute victory for U23 Vietnam

First of all, it must be affirmed that the 1-0 victory over Indonesia and the defense of the championship title of U23 Vietnam is completely deserved and within the expectations of experts as well as fans.

U23 Vietnam came to the 2025 U23 Southeast Asian competition with the status and position of a king who needs to defend his throne. That is demonstrated by the fact that coach Kim Sang Sik summoned a force that can be considered the most combative and experienced that Vietnamese football currently possesses.

U23 Vietnam deserved to win.

Just considering the age and maturity of U23 Vietnam is a significant advantage. Names like Van Truong, Dinh Bac, Thai Son, Van Khang or Phi Hoang... fighting in V-League, U23 Asia tournament and even World Cup qualifiers help the squad in the hands of coach Kim Sang Sik become 'superior' to the regional playground.

It is not surprising that the opponents in the tournament mainly used younger players, so the convincing victory of U23 Vietnam is a reasonable result, reflecting the true strength and investment in this tournament.

Besides, coach Kim Sang Sik also contributed greatly to the team's journey to the championship, with flexible tactical thinking and the ability to use personnel effectively, and the way he responded to the match.

Is there hope?

However, after that glory, the question arises: Is this a sign for a next generation capable of carrying the Vietnamese team in the near future?

In reality, shining at the U23 level has never been a guarantee of success in the Vietnam national team. Players like Van Truong, Phi Hoang, Dinh Bac, Anh Quan… have high expectations, but the path to the national team will not be easy.

However, after glory, sowing hope does not mean it will sprout.

The level of competition in the Vietnamese team is very fierce, requiring not only technique and physical strength but also courage and stability - something that many young players in the past struggled with and could not break through.

The current generation of U23 Vietnam can be seen as a necessary additional resource, but expecting them to immediately change the situation - that is, to quickly replace their seniors - is unrealistic.

Therefore, it can be seen that the championship of U23 Vietnam is very worthy and lays an important foundation, however, to step up to new heights from there is a long way, requiring perseverance from both fans and young players.

U23 Vietnam has sown hope, now is the time to see if hope can sprout.

Vietnamnet.vn