Vietnam U23 is entering a highly anticipated match against Thailand U23 at CFA Team China 2026, the game will take place at 14:00 on March 28.
After the opening match, Coach Dinh Hong Vinh and his team had a relatively positive "debut" when drawing 1-1 with North Korea U23. Against an opponent considered a "miniature national team," Vietnam U23 demonstrated confidence by quickly taking the lead thanks to a goal from Minh Tam. Despite being equalized in the second half, the overall performance still brought satisfaction to the coaching staff, particularly in how the players executed tactics and maintained competitive spirit.
On the other side, Thailand U23 also showed formidable strength by drawing with China U23 in their opening match. The Golden Temple team operated a 5-3-2 formation quite effectively in the first half, utilizing speed and space well to score two goals. However, their weakness was exposed in the second half when fitness declined, along with the loss of key center-back Inaram due to injury and defender Thiangkham being suspended. This will be an opportunity for Vietnam U23 to exploit.
Before this important confrontation, Coach Dinh Hong Vinh is likely to employ a 3-4-3 formation aiming to optimize wing attacking capability and flexibility in transitioning between phases. In goal, Cao Van Binh continues to be a reliable choice. The trio of center-backs comprising Le Nguyen Hoang (left), Dinh Quang Kiet (center), and Vu Quoc Anh (right) is expected to provide solidity against opponent pressure.
In the midfield, Nguyen Bao Long and Le Thang Long manage the two wing corridors, playing a crucial role in both supporting attack and defense. The central midfield pair Tran Thanh Trung and Thai Ba Dat will be the key to helping Vietnam U23 control the game's tempo, especially in escaping pressing, which caused much difficulty against North Korea U23.
On the forward line, the trio Le Van Thuan (left), Nguyen Minh Tam (center forward), and Nguyen Cong Phuong (right) promise to continue being a dangerous spearhead. Minh Tam has proven sharp finishing ability with a goal in the previous match, while Cong Phuong and Van Thuan bring breakthrough potential through speed and technique.
Besides the starting lineup, Vietnam U23 also possesses notable backup options for the second half. Names like Dang Duong, Nguyen Vadim, or Quang Huy could be deployed to increase creativity and speed in the forward line.
With a full squad and high spirits after the draw against North Korea U23, Vietnam U23 has grounds to aim for a positive result against Thailand U23. This is not only an important professional test but also an opportunity for Coach Dinh Hong Vinh and his team to affirm their standing and accurately assess their capabilities against a direct regional competitor.