Before the opening match of Group C of the 2026 AFC U17 Championship, the U17 Yemen coaching staff continuously emphasized the importance of the confrontation with U17 Vietnam, considering this a match that has a great impact on the opportunity to compete for a ticket to the next round.
Currently, U17 Yemen has completed the preparation process, including perfecting tactics as well as physical condition.
In a statement to Yemeni media on May 5, head coach Al-Asbahi said that U17 Yemen participates in the tournament with the highest concentration, and affirmed that the whole team sees each match as a final, especially paying great attention to U17 Vietnam.
Mr. Al-Asbahi also highly appreciated Vietnam's ability after the positive results in the qualifiers. According to him, U17 Vietnam is a well-organized team, achieves stable form and is capable of creating difficulties for all opponents in Group C.
Not only did the Yemen coaching staff appear cautious, but the country's media also considered the confrontation with U17 Vietnam to be decisive.
Yemeni newspapers commented that Group C is one of the most balanced groups in the tournament with the addition of U17 South Korea and U17 UAE. A favorable result in the opening match will help U17 Yemen create a great advantage in the competition for a place in the knockout round.
The goal of the West Asian team is not only to stop at the group stage but also to aim for a ticket to the U17 World Cup.
In addition to professional factors, U17 Yemen also received significant encouragement from the Yemeni community living in Saudi Arabia. The coaching staff of this team expects a large audience in Jeddah to create more spiritual advantage in the confrontation with U17 Vietnam.
