Pre-match information
The draw against U23 DPRK in the opening match of the CFA Team China - Southwest 2026 tournament is of professional evaluation significance for U23 Vietnam. This is also an important stage for the coaching staff to review forces and test many playing styles.
Because the object and result are not the focus, instead it is the testing of system operation and adaptability of each position in the diagram.
In this match, the team under the management of head coach Dinh Hong Vinh showed organizational stability. The lines maintained stable distance, limiting large gaps against disciplined opponents.
The intensity of the match was maintained, especially in the midfield area, helping U23 Vietnam not to be drawn into an unfavorable position. However, the effectiveness in deploying attacks was still not high, as coordination situations in the last 1/3 of the field lacked breakthrough.
What was shown in the first match laid the foundation for the next match against U23 Thailand. This is considered a clearer test when the opponent tends to play proactively and aim to affirm their position in the region.
The high level of competition in the match will help U23 Vietnam more accurately assess the tactical effectiveness being built.
On the other side, U23 Thailand started with a 2-2 draw against U23 China. The Golden Temple team used a 5-3-2 formation to ensure certainty in defense, and at the same time exploited speed in state transitions. Both goals scored came from quick organized situations, taking advantage of space when the opponent pushed high.
However, when the intensity of the match increased in the second half, U23 Thailand had difficulty maintaining the game. The deep defensive system reduced ball control and limited attacking plans.
