In an exhilarating quarter-final of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, Vietnam secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over the UAE after extra time. This win marks a historic achievement as Vietnam reaches the semi-finals for the first time as group leaders.
Match Summary: Vietnam vs UAE
The match, held on January 12, 2026, at Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium, saw Vietnam take the lead multiple times. A pivotal moment came in the 101st minute when Minh Phúc scored, solidifying Vietnam’s advantage.
Key Events
- Final Score: Vietnam 3 – 2 UAE
- Date: January 12, 2026
- Location: Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium, Saudi Arabia
- Noteworthy Player: Minh Phúc, with a crucial goal at 101 minutes
Throughout the game, Vietnam’s defense showcased resilience, particularly in the closing segments. UAE attempted several shots, but Vietnam’s defenders successfully thwarted the threats, maintaining their narrow lead.
Team Performance and Statistics
- Vietnam’s Road to the Quarter-Finals: First in Group A after defeating Jordan (2-0), Kyrgyzstan (2-1), and Saudi Arabia (1-0).
- UAE’s Path: Second in Group B with a victory against Qatar (2-0), a loss to Japan (0-3), and a draw with Syria (1-1).
- Average Player Height: UAE 1.793 m, Vietnam 1.765 m.
- Average Age: UAE 22.13 years, Vietnam 22.22 years.
Vietnam’s victory is a testament to their strategic execution and teamwork. Coach Kim Sang-sik’s tactics proved effective, especially in countering UAE’s physical play, which traditionally gives them an advantage in the region.
Historical Context
This match marked the fourth meeting between Vietnam and UAE in U23 AFC Championship history. Historically, UAE has dominated with five wins and three draws in eight encounters. However, the outcome of this match demonstrates a significant turnaround for Vietnam, who previously struggled against the UAE.
With this win, Vietnam now faces Uzbekistan or China in the semi-finals scheduled for January 20, 2026. As they continue to advance in the tournament, they have set new precedents for Vietnamese football at the continental level.
