Chinese media fear U22 Vietnam is too strong

U22 Vietnam made a strong impression ahead of the Panda Cup 2025 in China, receiving high praise from Chinese media for their squad quality and form.

U22 Vietnam has officially departed for China to participate in the Panda Cup 2025, an international tournament organized by the Chinese Football Association (CFA) in Chengdu from November 12 to 18, 2025. This is an opportunity for the team to gain international match experience, refine personnel and tactics, and prepare for the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. Chinese media are especially focused on the team’s strength and balance. U22 Vietnam, regarded as a formidable opponent right before the tournament.

China’s Sina newspaper commented: "The opponents in this tournament are all very strong. Especially notable is U22 Vietnam, which brings a very powerful squad with 26 players, including 14 who have played for the national team and 9 who recently participated in the AFC U23 qualifiers last October, such as Nguyen Quoc Viet and Khuat Van Khang. The return of striker Bui Vi Hao adds even more depth to the team." With this lineup, Chinese media believe U22 Vietnam’s strength this time "far surpasses their previous tour held in March."

In fact, the squad U22 Vietnam consists of the best players, many of whom have represented the national team. Vietnam Football Federation Vice President Tran Anh Tu serves as the team leader, while assistant coach Dinh Hong Vinh acts as interim head coach. Thorough preparation helps the team maintain stable form from the V-League, despite having only one training session before the competition, enabling players to start confidently and adapt flexibly during matches.

With a tight schedule, U22 Vietnam will start the Panda Cup facing host China on November 12, then play Uzbekistan, and finish the group stage against South Korea. Chinese media predict that Vietnam’s balanced squad and quality individuals could bring exciting surprises to the tournament. Youth combined with domestic experience gives the team a tactical advantage over strong opponents.

The attention from Chinese press further proves that U22 Vietnam has emerged as a formidable force in Southeast Asia. Can coach Dinh Hong Vinh’s squad overcome all challenges at the Panda Cup 2025 and assert their position against the strongest rivals?

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