U20 Vietnam Finalizes Squad for U20 Asian Qualifiers: The Japan Boost and Tactical Pieces

On August 28, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) officially announced the 23-man squad for the U20 Vietnam national team to participate in the 2027 AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers, held in Viet Tri, Phu Tho from August 31 to September 6. This is the result of a thorough preparation process, with the highlight being an extended training camp in Japan featuring six friendly matches – a strategic investment by the VFF to elevate the youth team. Head coach Yutaka Ikeuchi, a Japanese tactician, used this trip to evaluate every position and perfect the playing style. According to experts, the six matches against Japanese youth sides were not just physical tests but also opportunities to implement organized pressing and positional play – hallmarks of Japanese football. The results of the friendlies were not disclosed, but more importantly, Coach Ikeuchi found his desired core squad. The most notable highlight in the squad is the inclusion of two players who have already proven themselves at the senior national team level: Nguyen Le Phat and Dinh Quang Kiet. Le Phat, who has played for the U23 and senior national teams and won a bronze medal at the U23 Asian Cup, brings composure and match tempo from high-level environments. Meanwhile, Quang Kiet – an ASEAN Championship winner with the senior team – is expected to upgrade the defensive quality, which was identified as a weakness to address. Tactically, the presence of these two players creates a two-tier structure. In midfield, Le Phat acts as the conductor, regulating tempo and launching attacks. In defense, Quang Kiet partners with captain Nguyen Quoc Khanh – one of five defenders called up – forming a solid wall. This suggests Coach Ikeuchi prioritizes defensive solidity, a pragmatic choice for the short group-stage format. However, the attack remains the biggest question mark. Among the six forwards named, none have the experience of Le Phat or Quang Kiet. The original article emphasizes "trust is placed in the strikers to score goals" – a phrase that is both hopeful and cautious. If the young forwards cannot deliver, the pressure will fall on the midfield and defense. Vietnam's group includes Iran, North Korea, and Palestine. The opening match against North Korea (August 31) is seen as a crucial warm-up but also carries risks – North Korean youth teams are typically disciplined and difficult to break down. Next is Palestine (September 3), and finally Iran (September 6) – a match expected to decide the group winner. Iran is always a powerhouse in Asian youth competitions, with superior physicality and physique. Home advantage in Viet Tri will be a huge mental boost for U20 Vietnam, but it could also create pressure if results are unfavorable. From an investment perspective, the Japan training camp demonstrates the VFF's commitment to youth football. The cost of six international friendlies plus accommodation and travel is significant, but it is a long-term investment. Recent successes of Vietnamese football at the U23 and senior levels create a positive cycle: good results drive investment, and investment yields better results. Overall, U20 Vietnam enters the qualifiers with thorough preparation, squad depth, and home advantage. However, youth football always contains surprises. If Coach Ikeuchi's players can overcome psychological pressure and capitalize on opportunities, a ticket to the 2027 U20 Asian Cup finals is well within reach.