The 3-0 victory over U23 Vietnam in the semi-finals of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship created a large wave of attention in Chinese public opinion. Although the match ended in the early morning of January 21st Beijing time, U23 China quickly became the focus on social networks, when most of the topics of interest revolved around this result.
For the first time reaching the final of the AFC U23 Championship, the Chinese youth team is considered by the country's media as a rare feat of men's football in recent years, especially in the context of achievements at all levels that the team is under a lot of pressure.
Comments from China emphasized that the victory over U23 Vietnam comes with many notable milestones such as U23 China winning all 5 matches, keeping a clean sheet throughout the tournament and becoming one of the few teams that reached the final of the AFC U23 Championship without conceding a goal. This is also the first time in more than two decades that Chinese men's football has had a representative participate in the final of a continental tournament.
In that journey, goalkeeper Li Hao was considered a prominent factor. From the group stage to the knockout matches, especially the confrontation with U23 Vietnam, this goalkeeper continuously made important saves, contributing to maintaining the game for the home team.
Besides the performance of the players, the tactical adjustments of U23 China are also highly appreciated. The change of many positions in the starting lineup in the semi-finals was controversial, but after the match, it was seen as a decisive step, making it difficult for U23 Vietnam to adapt.
Despite praising the home team, Chinese media still recognized the capacity and bravery of U23 Vietnam. According to assessments, coach Kim Sang-sik's team possesses a well-organized playing style, stable technical foundation and is not easily subdued.
Analysts believe that the turning point of the match came after center-back Hieu Minh - who plays the central role in the defense - was forced to leave the field due to injury. The opening goal at the beginning of the second half and the subsequent red card put U23 Vietnam at a disadvantage. Despite losing 0-3, U23 Vietnam still maintained a positive fighting spirit and created pressure, which was highly appreciated by Chinese observers.
