How strong are the opponents of Vietnam U17 at the AFC U17 Championship?

U17 Vietnam encounters formidable opponents in UAE, Yemen, and South Korea.

Group C of the 2026 AFC U17 Championship presents Vietnam U17 with a familiar yet different scenario. Familiar because we continue to face West Asian teams, known for their technical style and individual flair. Different because the current balance has shifted significantly, as Vietnamese youth football has made clear progress in physicality and resilience over recent years. Overall, the challenge remains, but it’s no longer about “playing to learn” as before; it’s now a fair contest for every point and every chance to advance.

Among these rivals, the two closest in level to us are U17 UAE and U17 Yemen. Previous encounters have shown the gap between Vietnam U17 and these teams is narrow. In fact, better exploitation of opportunities might have changed the outcomes. This builds confidence that the Southeast Asian side is fully capable of competing, rather than entering the tournament as underdogs. However, this balance also means that a single moment of carelessness could turn the tide.

The memory with UAE is still quite fresh. We came very close to victory but lost it at a crucial moment. Nevertheless, that performance demonstrated Vietnam U17 was not inferior. The players on both sides have similar physiques, and aerial plays are no longer a major concern. UAE’s danger lies in their speed and close-control skills. When motivated, they can create breakthroughs with dribbling or sudden shots, forcing the opponent’s defense to pay the price.

Therefore, the key challenge for Vietnam U17 is not only winning duels but also maintaining organization. Against teams rich in spontaneity, keeping proper spacing, quick cover, and minimizing gaps is vital. Achieving this will gradually shift the advantage to us, as improved fitness allows our young players to be more confident in one-on-one battles. When no longer outmatched physically, toughness and discipline can become the keys to success.

Yemen shares many similarities with UAE. They play fast, skillfully, and can explode at any moment. However, looking at tournament history, Yemen rarely advances far. Most times, they exit early, reflecting some inconsistency. Vietnam U17 has had positive results against them before, so with good tactical and mental preparation, earning points—or even a win—is entirely achievable.

The most formidable team in the group is undoubtedly U17 South Korea. The young Korean squad boasts tradition, strong physical foundations, and an extremely fierce competitive spirit. They are often seen as favorites for the top spot, even the championship. But youth football always holds surprises. When the skill gap narrows, just the right strategy combined with strong determination could allow Vietnam U17 to create a story similar to what previous generations achieved.

What does Korean media say about facing Vietnam U17?

If Vietnam U17 beats West Asia, will they secure a historic World Cup ticket?