U23 Vietnam is receiving very high ratings before the 2026 AFC U23 Championship semi-final match against U23 China. On the homepage of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the percentage of fans and experts predicting U23 Vietnam to win is up to 94%, a figure that shows almost absolute confidence for coach Kim Sang-sik and his team.
These optimistic predictions are not accidental. From the group stage, U23 Vietnam showed stable and convincing form with a total victory record. The red shirt team impressed with their technical, fast, well-organized play and especially their ability to control the game. After three group stage matches, U23 Vietnam scored 5 goals and only conceded 1 goal, ranking among the teams with the most effective attack and defense in the tournament.
In the quarter-finals, U23 Vietnam continued to prove their bravery when overcoming U23 UAE in an emotional match. The team proactively controlled the ball, led many times and showed confidence in extra time to win the overall victory. The way U23 Vietnam controlled the pace of the match was a key factor that made Asian experts appreciate the team's ability to go far.
In contrast to that image, U23 China entered the semi-finals with a defensive style of play. In the quarter-finals, they drew 0-0 with U23 Uzbekistan in 120 minutes before winning on penalties, thanks to the excellent performance of goalkeeper Li Hao. However, since the beginning of the tournament, U23 China has only scored 1 goal and only had one victory in official play time, numbers are not convincing enough.
It is the contrast in form and playing style that makes users on the AFC homepage only rate U23 China as having 6% chance of winning. In the context of being the only representative of Southeast Asia still participating, U23 Vietnam not only carries the expectation of victory, but also shows fair competitiveness with top continental teams on the journey towards the 2026 AFC U23 Championship final.
