* Vietnam – Kyrgyzstan: 9:00 p.m. on Friday, 9/1, on VnExpress.

Vietnam has a significantly stronger track record than Kyrgyzstan, having participated in the AFC U23 Asian Cup finals six consecutive times. The team was the runner-up in the 2018 tournament and reached the quarterfinals in both 2022 and 2024. In contrast, Kyrgyzstan, alongside Lebanon, is a newcomer to the tournament in Saudi Arabia.

The Kyrgyzstan Football Federation (KFU) recognizes that Vietnam's focus on youth development has allowed it to consistently establish its presence in continental competitions. Their 2-0 victory against Jordan in the opening match demonstrated thorough tactical and mental preparation for the major tournament.

Vietnam (in red) defeated Jordan 2-0 in the opening match of group A of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 6/1/2025. Photo: AFC

"Vietnam deserves to be among Asia's most organized and resilient teams," a KFU article stated. "Their playing style features a high tempo, absolute discipline, and a clear team structure. Players move continuously, coordinate tightly between lines, and maintain focus for the entire 90 minutes."

Kyrgyzstan experienced a contrasting result in their opening match, losing 0-1 to Saudi Arabia. Despite being reduced to 10 men in the 33rd minute, the team displayed a strong fighting spirit, conceding only in the 87th minute.

Kyrgyzstan needs to secure points in this match to keep their hopes alive for advancement. The KFU considers the match against Vietnam crucial and intense, where focus, fighting spirit for every situation, and composure will determine the outcome.

"The team is ready to embrace the challenge, fully focused, understands the game, and will give their all," the article noted. "Each player knows their role and is ready to fight for their emblem, country, and dreams."

Kyrgyzstan midfielder Arsen Sharshenbekov (number 10) received a direct red card in the 33rd minute of the 0-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the opening match of group A of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 6/1/2025. Photo: AFC

Kyrgyzstan will be without midfielder Arsen Sharshenbekov due to the red card received against Saudi Arabia. The remaining players are in good physical condition. Playing at 5:00 p.m. (Riyadh time), which is 9:00 p.m. (Hanoi time), will also help the players partially avoid the hot weather.

This marks the first time Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam will meet within the AFC U23 Asian Cup framework. Previously, the two teams faced each other three times. The first was in the group stage of ASIAD 2014, where Toshiya Miura's team won 1-0 to top group H. Vietnam also secured a 3-0 victory in a friendly match in the UAE in 2021, ahead of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2022 qualifiers. However, in their most recent encounter at the Doha Cup 2023 friendly tournament, the two teams drew 0-0 before Vietnam lost 4-5 in a penalty shootout.

"We will give our utmost to earn 6 points against Vietnam and Jordan," stated goalkeeper Nurlanbekov. Meanwhile, captain Said Datsiev said: "I can guarantee and promise that the team will improve from this match and make the fans happy."

Trung Thu