Richard Harcus, a Scottish football expert, formerly head of the Arsenal Program in Vietnam and currently the chief executive officer (CEO) of Harcus Consultancy Group, an Asian football training and development consulting firm, observed Vietnam U23's 3-2 victory over UAE after 120 minutes. He noted that this win, which secured a semi-final spot, also highlighted three "unusual" qualities often absent in Vietnamese football when facing West Asian teams.

The first impression was a rare display of composure. Despite tense moments in the match, Vietnam U23 maintained a stable performance from start to finish. Even after conceding a goal just minutes after taking the lead, the players, instead of succumbing to disarray or haste like many other teams, continued to trust their chosen playing style, persevered with their plan, and were deservedly rewarded.

"Their calm tactical execution, combined with enduring physical fitness, was the most impressive aspect of the Vietnam team," he stated.

Historically, Vietnam faced difficulties against West Asian teams in the latter stages of matches. However, this time, the team sustained its intensity and alertness until the 120th minute, maintaining a performance quality that remained nearly undiminished from the start.

Richard Harcus. *Photo courtesy of subject*

Dinh Bac's impact further exemplified the team's composure. Although not in the starting lineup, he quickly influenced the attack after coming on for the injured Le Viktor in the 34th minute. Dinh Bac assisted Le Phat's opening goal and then scored the second with a superb back-header. His rapid ability to make a difference became a turning point in the match, reflecting the team's resilience and physical conditioning, particularly in extra time.

Vietnam U23 also demonstrated rare situational control against a physically superior opponent like UAE. Entering extra time, Vietnam did not retreat into defensive formation but actively pushed for high pressing. Minh Phuc's decisive goal in the 101st minute stemmed from a high-intensity press, forcing an UAE error, even as Vietnamese players maintained their stamina under the harsh Saudi Arabian heat.

Coach Kim Sang-sik's player management and game regulation clearly reflected a proactive mindset. The starting lineup was designed to stretch and wear down the opposition's stamina before introducing impactful players. By starting Le Phat while holding key reserves, UAE was compelled to expend energy early. In-game adjustments, such as substituting Quoc Cuong for the injured Xuan Bac, helped the midfield maintain its structure and balance even when the intensity of play escalated.

The next quality observed was resilience. The Vietnam team maintained a high work rate, never relinquishing faith in their chosen playing style, even during the most challenging moments of the match.

From a professional standpoint, the quarter-final performance signified more than just a favorable result; it clearly reflected a significant shift in tactical thinking under Coach Kim Sang-sik. Compared to recent periods, the team demonstrated efficiency and stable physical conditioning rarely seen in years. Instead of controlling possession but lacking sharpness as before, the players patiently built their play, waiting for high-probability scoring opportunities before taking shots.

Vietnam U23 players celebrate Minh Phuc's (number 21) goal, which secured a 3-2 victory over UAE U23, on the evening of 16/1. *Photo: Duc Dong*

Finally, Harcus expressed surprise at the team's progress. Having lived and worked in Vietnam for over 12 years, he began following domestic football during his tenure as head of the Arsenal Program in Vietnam.

"Football offers a crucial insight into society and its people, as the competitive spirit clearly reflects the perseverance and life attitude of the Vietnamese," he remarked.

The developmental landscape is viewed differently between the national team and league football. At the club level, Vietnam still requires more investment in its domestic league system, management, infrastructure, and operational models. However, at the national team level, the impact is more pronounced. A "golden generation" of players established a strong foundation, and changes initiated during Coach Park Hang-seo's tenure contributed to shaping new mindsets and expectations.

"Fans now approach every tournament with the belief that the national team must win, even against strong opponents, a sentiment rarely seen over a decade ago," he observed.

The noticeable sign of progress extends beyond the field, evident in how the team unites fans. The Vietnam team inspires strangers, whether sitting on plastic pavement chairs or in small pho restaurants, to stand together before a television, collectively following every play and sharing a sense of pride.

"Such moments demonstrate how far Vietnamese football has truly come," he concluded.

Ngoc Ngan