The 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Mandiri Cup will officially kick off from July 15 to 29 in Indonesia, gathering all 10 U23 teams in the region.
Before the tournament started, the AFF had an article pointing out the notable players participating in the tournament, including 2 players from U23 Vietnam, Van Truong and Thai Son.
"Hanoi FC midfielder Nguyen Van Truong was a member of the U23 Vietnam squad that won the championship at the U23 Southeast Asian Championship 2 years ago. However, in that tournament, he was mainly used as a reserve player.
This time, the 21-year-old player will aim for a more influential role in the team. With a large and strong body, Van Truong is very strong in aerial situations and holds the ball firmly for the home team," AFF commented.
Regarding Thai Son, AFF commented: "Defense midfielder Nguyen Thai Son, who will turn 22 just a few days before the tournament starts, has brought coach Kim Sang- Sik's squad a lot of valuable skills and experience.
Honored as the Best Young Player of Vietnam in 2023, this versatile and diligent player has played all of Vietnam's matches at the 2023 Asian Cup and the 2024 U23 Asian Cup.
In addition, he is also an indispensable factor for Dong A Thanh Hoa in the campaign to participate in the Southeast Asian Club Championship for the first time".
The 2025 U23 Southeast Asian tournament promises to be an important playground for young talents in the region to express themselves, especially for U23 Vietnam when the team brings high expectations with the duo Van Truong and Thai Son - factors highly appreciated by the AFF.
According to the draw results, U23 Vietnam is in Group B with U23 Laos and U23 Cambodia. U23 Vietnam will face U23 Laos on July 19 and U23 Cambodia on July 22.
The official list of 23 players participating in the tournament will be announced by coach Kim Sang-sik in the next few days.
