U20 Vietnam ready for U20 Asian Cup qualifiers: Lessons from failure and home-ground ambition

This afternoon, at the headquarters of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF), the press conference ahead of the 2027 U20 Asian Cup qualifiers took place in a solemn but determined atmosphere. Head coach Yutaka Ikeuchi and captain Nguyen Quoc Khanh shared their thoughts openly about the upcoming journey of the U20 Vietnam team in Group C, where they will face strong opponents such as Iran, DPR Korea, and Palestine. "We have received a lot of support from VFF and clubs. This provides the best conditions for the whole team during the preparation process," Coach Ikeuchi opened the press conference, his eyes looking straight at the reporters with calmness. The Japanese tactician did not hide the difficulties ahead, especially the opening match against DPR Korea - a team rated very strong in terms of physicality and fighting spirit. The context of this campaign is more special than ever. After the regrettable failure at the 2026 U19 Southeast Asian Championship, the U20 Vietnam team enters the qualifiers with the pressure to show growth and resilience. Coach Ikeuchi admitted: "The unsatisfactory result in the previous tournament was a big lesson. We have analyzed together, learned from experience, and rebuilt the foundation, narrowing the gap in professional quality between positions." A notable point in the press conference was the presence of new faces added to the squad. Due to injuries, the coaching staff proactively sought and called up additional players to strengthen squad depth. Captain Nguyen Quoc Khanh, who plays in the V-League, shared: "The newcomers have integrated very quickly. Their V-League experience will bring great value to the team in decisive moments." Tactically, although not revealing specific formations or playing style, Coach Ikeuchi emphasized building a solid collective capable of adapting flexibly to different opponents. This caution suggests he is carefully considering the opening match against DPR Korea - a team described as having a physical, disciplined style that is difficult to beat. The key point of interest for experts is how U20 Vietnam will approach such an unpredictable opponent as DPR Korea. With home advantage, the team can leverage fan support to put pressure on the opposition. However, the opposing head coach himself acknowledged Vietnam's advantage while affirming his team would not be easily subdued. A notable contrarian view is whether the pressure of fan expectations could become a burden for the young players. Vietnamese football history has witnessed many youth teams struggling under high pressure at home. However, captain Quoc Khanh appeared very confident: "We understand the fans' expectations, but we don't see them as pressure but as motivation. The whole team is ready to give their best for the national colors." Group C is considered a difficult group with the presence of Iran - a traditionally strong team in Asia. Palestine, despite difficulties in assembling their squad due to players playing in different countries, remains a team not to be underestimated. Coach Ikeuchi emphasized: "We respect every opponent but fear none. Our goal is clear: to qualify for the final round." Throughout the press conference, the refrain "lessons from the past" was repeated several times. This shows the coaching staff is making great efforts to rebuild the spirit and confidence of the young players after the shock at the U19 Southeast Asian Championship. Adding players with V-League experience is seen as a smart move, bringing more solidity and composure to the squad in crucial matches. When asked about the message to fans, captain Nguyen Quoc Khanh could not hide his emotion: "We hope fans will come to the stadium in large numbers to fuel the whole team. Your support is our greatest source of strength on this journey." Regarding personnel, the U20 Vietnam team has been preparing quite thoroughly. The proactive and swift handling of injuries demonstrates professionalism in the team's medical and logistical work. The quick integration of new players is also a positive signal, showing a good atmosphere in the dressing room. However, the biggest question remains whether U20 Vietnam can compete with top Asian teams like Iran. With home advantage, thorough preparation, and high determination, the team has every reason to aim for a ticket to the final round. But football always holds surprises, and it is this unpredictability that makes the beautiful game so appealing. As the press conference ended, Coach Ikeuchi spent a few seconds looking back, where his players were preparing for this afternoon's training session. His eyes showed a hint of contemplation, as if envisioning the road ahead. The ball will roll, and all answers will be found on the pitch. With what has been shown, U20 Vietnam is on the right track, but the journey ahead remains long and challenging.