In the group stage, U23 UAE attracted attention when using many naturalized players in the starting lineup. In the decisive match against U23 Syria, this team had 3 African-born players starting, including striker Junior Ndiaye, midfielder Solomon Sosu and defender Richard Akonnor. These factors made an important contribution to helping UAE win a ticket to the next round.
Junior Ndiaye is the most prominent name. This 20-year-old striker used to play for U17 France before choosing to play for UAE. Currently Ndiaye is playing for Montpellier club in Ligue 2 (France) and has early shown an important role both at club level and in the UAE youth team. In the group stage, he scored in the 2-0 victory over U23 Qatar, showing his ability to make a difference at important times.
The naturalization strategy of UAE football is not a new story. In the past decade, clubs in this country have invested heavily in recruiting foreign players, especially from Brazil and Africa, with the goal of building a long-term force for national teams. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, UAE once called up more than 10 naturalized players, most of whom have no blood ties to this country.
Strong investment helps the UAE own a squad with good physique, fitness and speed - factors that always create great pressure for Southeast Asian teams. Statistics also show that, at the U23 level, the UAE is dominating when they have never lost to Vietnam after 6 previous encounters.
However, U23 Vietnam entered the quarter-finals with great confidence after an impressive performance in the group stage, especially the victory over U23 Saudi Arabia. According to experts, against a powerful opponent like U23 UAE, the ability to organize the playing style, tactical discipline and alertness at key times will be decisive factors for coach Kim Sang-sik's team.
