In Hanoi, immediately after the national team's victory at 1h on 17/1, fans from various directions flocked to the capital's center. On streets such as Nguyen Trai and Cau Giay, people carried red-starred flags, cheering and enlivening the celebratory atmosphere throughout the neighborhoods.

Hanoi Opera House at 1h30, packed with people carrying horns and flags, cheering on the streets. This is a frequent gathering spot for large numbers of fans "storming the streets" whenever the Vietnam national team wins.

In the Kim Lien tunnel area, the celebrating crowd caused prolonged traffic jams at both ends. On the road surface, authorities directed traffic, continuously reminding vehicles not to stop or park in the roadway.

At Kim Lien tunnel, Minh Hieu and Thu Thuy took advantage of the "storming the streets" atmosphere for a special wedding photoshoot. According to the studio, aiming to create meaningful photos that shared in the joy of Vietnam's victory, the team suggested this style to the bride and groom.

At 2h10, thousands of people still lined the street leading to Kim Lien tunnel, cheering and celebrating the national team's 3-2 victory after 120 thrilling minutes in the U23 Asian Cup quarterfinals against UAE.

Amidst the celebrating crowds, a foreign tourist, holding a Vietnam flag, enthusiastically joined the residents in their victory celebrations.

Fireworks and flares lit up the chilly 15 degrees C Hanoi night, blending with shouts of "Vietnam champions".

In Ho Chi Minh City, even past 1h, Nguyen Hue walking street was bustling with fans. Supporters carried flags and horns, continuously cheering for the national team's victory.

Some people even brought speakers and pots and pans to amplify the celebratory atmosphere.

Hoang Anh stated that immediately after the match, he and his friends rode their motorbikes out to celebrate and did not expect such a large crowd. Compared to the previous "storming the streets" when the U23 team won the SEA Games in late 12/2025, he noted that this victory was more surprising, making the emotions much more exhilarating. "Today, we'll probably celebrate until morning before heading home", Hoang Anh said.

Close to 2h, hundreds of fans converged on the Ton Duc Thang – Ben Bach Dang street area, which was packed with people and vehicles, leaving almost no room to move.

This marks Vietnam's second time reaching the U23 Asian Cup semifinals, following their 2018 appearance under coach Park Hang-seo. The team will face Uzbekistan or China in the semifinals on 20/1.

Hoang Giang - Dinh Van