On the afternoon of January 5th, coach Kim Sang-sik finalized the list of 23 U23 Vietnam players participating in the 2026 AFC U23 Championship finals.
The official list announced was not unexpected, but still left many regrets when having to say goodbye to some important names.
Compared to the preliminary list before, midfielder Nguyen Le Phat has been added to the final list, replacing Bui Vi Hao. Despite making great efforts in the process of recovering from injury, and even being given the opportunity to play in the friendly match with U23 Syria (December 30, 2025), Vi Hao has not yet reached the optimal fitness state.
The coaching staff was forced to make difficult decisions to ensure stability and safety for the squad in a high-intensity tournament like the AFC U23 Championship.
In addition, the personnel issue in the goalkeeper position also forced the coaching staff to recalculate. Nguyen Tan could not continue to accompany due to injury and Pham Dinh Hai was called up to supplement.
With timely support from VFF, AFC and the host country's organizers, goalkeeper Dinh Hai completed visa procedures in the afternoon of January 5. It is expected that he will soon move to Saudi Arabia to join the whole team in the shortest time.
At 6:30 PM on January 6, U23 Vietnam will enter the opening match of the final round against U23 Jordan. The shortage of forces right before the G-hour poses many challenges, requiring coach Kim Sang-sik's team to show solidarity, bravery and quick adaptation.
