Expected lineup for U23 Vietnam vs U23 North Korea: New faces will play

U23 Vietnam will have a lineup with a new look in their opening match at the CFA Team China 2026 international friendly tournament.

U23 Vietnam enters the CFA Team China 2026 tournament with a new look under coach Đinh Hồng Vinh, marking a transition phase toward ASIAD 2026. After success at SEA Games 33 and a fourth-place finish at the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, the team retains only a few pillars like Cao Văn Bình, Nguyễn Công Phương, Lê Văn Thuận, and Phạm Đình Hải. The rest are young or new faces, forming an almost entirely new squad.

The opponent U23 North Korea in today's opening match (March 25) is considered an "unknown" with a physically strong, disciplined, and high-pressing style. Historical matchups also somewhat favor them, making this opening match a crucial test for U23 Vietnam.

Regarding the expected lineup, U23 Vietnam is likely to operate in a 3-4-3 formation. In goal, Cao Văn Bình is the top choice due to his international experience. The trio of central defenders Lê Nguyên Hoàng, Đinh Quang Kiệt, and Trần Hải Anh forms a defense with clear aerial advantages.

The midfield core combines Trần Thành Trung and Công Phương. Meanwhile, the two wings are handled by Lê Đình Long Vũ and Nguyễn Vadim, providing speed and flexible attacking/defending capabilities.

In attack, Nguyễn Minh Tâm is expected to be the main striker at the center-forward position. Supporting him are Nguyễn Đăng Dương and Lê Văn Thuận, players capable of creating breakthroughs.

This lineup indicates U23 Vietnam is moving toward a modern, more physically robust style, with many players over 1.80m tall, a positive sign in the process of upgrading the team's quality.

Expected lineup for U23 Vietnam: Văn Bình, Quang Kiệt, Hải Anh, Nguyên Hoàng, Thành Trung, Công Phương, Long Vũ, Nguyễn Vadim, Đăng Dương, Văn Thuận, Minh Tâm.