The opening match in Group A of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship set a challenge for U23 Vietnam when facing U23 Jordan - a direct contender for a ticket to the next round.
However, this confrontation is considered a real test for the adaptability and bravery of coach Kim Sang-sik and his team.
On the sidelines of the team's training session, midfielder Nguyen Xuan Bac commented: "U23 Jordan is a well-organized team, playing in terms of strength and physique. Their players move very quickly, especially in attack. Among them, Odeh Al-Fakhouri is a skillful player, capable of creating breakthroughs and we must pay special attention.
In the process of preparation, the U23 Vietnam coaching staff spent time analyzing the playing style of U23 Jordan. According to Xuan Bac, this team made a strong impression with discipline, physical foundation and speedy playing ability in the front line.
The midfielder currently playing for PVF-CAND also said that after watching Jordan's friendly matches, including the draw with U23 Japan, U23 Vietnam is clearly aware of the difficulty of the opening match.
Coach Kim Sang-sik also continuously emphasized the fighting spirit, requiring players to play with higher intensity than usual if they want to achieve positive results.
In addition, Xuan Bac also talked about the professional requirements for the U23 Vietnam midfield. He believes that midfielders not only take on the role of organizing the playing style but also actively compete, support defense and create continuous pressure to limit the opponent's physical strength.
We have trained and played together for a long time, so we understand each other's movement and coordination. The whole team always maintains a high determination and is ready to do everything to have a good match right from the opening match," the midfielder born in 2003 emphasized.
The opening match between U23 Vietnam and U23 Jordan at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship will take place at 6:30 PM on January 6.
