Chinese Newspaper: 'Vietnam U23 is Completely Different from Iran, Must Adjust Plans'

Chinese media made noteworthy observations when Vietnam U23 was invited to replace Iran in participating in the CFA Team China 2026 tournament in Xi'an.

Vietnam U23 will assemble on March 17 in Hanoi to prepare for the CFA Team China international friendly tournament - Xi'an 2026. The tournament takes place from March 25 to March 31 in Xi'an city (China), gathering four U23 teams including China, Vietnam, Thailand, and North Korea. The teams play a single round-robin format to calculate points for the final ranking.

Initially, Iran U23 was scheduled to participate in this tournament but later withdrew at the last minute. Chinese media, including the website 163, believe that the change of opponent will affect the preparation plans of the host team ahead of the Asian Games. According to this newspaper's assessment: “The change of opponent is said to significantly impact the preparation plans of China U23 for the Asian Games.”

163 analyzed that Iran was originally an opponent with a very distinctive style, suitable for testing the defensive capabilities of the host team. The newspaper wrote: “Iran U23 is known for its physically demanding play, strong challenges, and aerial dominance, considered an ideal test for the defense.” Therefore, Iran's non-participation somewhat alters the tactical equation for China U23.

However, Chinese media also evaluated that Vietnam U23 presents a different challenge. According to 163, “Vietnam U23 leans towards a technical style of play, fast coordination, and ball control, a style closer to opponents in the same Asian Games group, helping the host team practice strategies to break down packed defenses.” This is seen as a practical tactical test for China.

In the past, the two teams have met at the U23 level, and China won 3-0 at the AFC U23 Championship. Nevertheless, 163 also acknowledged that Vietnamese youth football is progressing significantly. The newspaper commented: “Vietnam's youth training system has clearly improved and remains an opponent that cannot be underestimated.”

According to the match schedule, Vietnam U23 will open the tournament with a match against North Korea U23 at 14:00 on March 25. Three days later, the team will face Thailand U23 at 14:00 on March 28 before concluding the tournament with the clash against host China U23 at 18:35 on March 31.

The training camp starting March 17 is seen as an important opportunity for the coaching staff to review the squad, test personnel, and refine tactics. For Vietnam U23, the CFA Team China tournament not only aims for positive results but also serves as an occasion to accumulate international experience, building a foundation for the next generation of national team players in upcoming major campaigns.