The Vietnam U23 team eagerly sets off for Qatar, accelerating preparations for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship final tournament.

Returning once again to this training location, we have a prepared mindset and feel very positive. Before the tournament, there will be a friendly match against Syria so the entire team can get the best competitive feeling."

I want to boost my competitive spirit, while gradually enhancing my physique and endurance step by step to aim for greater goals. For now, Vietnam U23 has not yet faced strong continental opponents, so we will only truly understand once the tournament starts.

I can’t say anything in advance. If I get to watch Ronaldo play in Saudi Arabia, that would be fantastic."

Before departing for Qatar training, coach Kim Sang Sik was somewhat concerned about the squad as goalkeeper Trần Trung Kiên had to train separately, and defender Đặng Tuấn Phong was absent.

At the 2026 AFC U23 Championship finals, Vietnam U23 is drawn into Group A along with host Saudi Arabia, the 2022 champions, U23 Jordan, and U23 Kyrgyzstan, who are making their first appearance at a U23 Asian Championship final. This group is regarded as highly competitive, featuring a title contender, an opponent with unpredictable playing style, and a newcomer eager to prove themselves.

According to the match schedule, Vietnam U23 will face U23 Jordan in their opening game on January 6, then meet U23 Kyrgyzstan on January 9, before finishing the group stage with a match against hosts U23 Saudi Arabia on January 12.