Ha Tuan Kiet (Phu Tho) and Le Hoang Tuan (Dong Nai) were chosen after the final round held in Ho Chi Minh City on 9/8 and 10/8. They will participate in a training and cultural exchange program with Tokushima Vortis in March 2026.
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Le Hoang Tuan (third from left) and Ha Tuan Kiet (second from right) earned spots in the training program in Japan. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang |
Le Hoang Tuan (third from left) and Ha Tuan Kiet (second from right) earned spots in the training program in Japan. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang
Launched in Vietnam in June, the "Dream of Japanese Football" project attracted nearly 700 applicants aged 13 and 14 (born between 1/8/2010 and 2/8/2012) from across the country. According to the organizers, the participants share a passion for football and a desire to showcase their talent for a chance to train in Japan. The quality of applicants steadily improved from the preliminary rounds to the finals. The finalists represent the most prominent talents of the first season.
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Finalists of the "Dream of Japanese Football" project, season 1. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang |
Finalists of the "Dream of Japanese Football" project, season 1. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang
Throughout the selection process, applicants were assessed on their technical skills, discipline, and professionalism. They underwent various tests led by Technical Director Dinh Hong Vinh, an experienced youth football coach with a high-level coaching certificate from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Coach Vinh designed and supervised the exercises at each stage, ranging from individual skill assessments and tactical training to teamwork and physical conditioning.
Coach Vinh explained that the tests were designed to help the participants reach their full potential and ensure the selection of deserving candidates for the international training program. "With a structured and professional approach, this year's applicants showed great potential," he added.
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Coach Dinh Hong Vinh and a representative of Pocari Sweat Vietnam at the opening ceremony of the "Dream of Japanese Football" project finals. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang |
Coach Dinh Hong Vinh and a representative of Pocari Sweat Vietnam at the opening ceremony of the "Dream of Japanese Football" project finals. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang
The "Dream of Japanese Football" project is co-organized by Otsuka Nutraceutical Vietnam (ONV), the owner of the Pocari Sweat brand in Vietnam, along with partners Ho Chi Minh City Football Club and BMG Football Academy, under the patronage of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Japan) and Tokushima Vortis (J-League, Japan). Oyamada Kohei, General Director of ONV, shared that the project is one of Otsuka's most meaningful endeavors to support young people in pursuing their dreams. "With a commitment to improving overall health, both physical and mental, Otsuka continuously strives for a healthy and resilient future generation," Kohei said.
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The Pocari Sweat brand was present throughout the event. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang |
The Pocari Sweat brand was present throughout the event. Photo: Nguyen Duy Quang
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., founded in 1921, is a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company. Pocari Sweat, one of Otsuka's flagship nutritional products, is available in over 20 countries and territories. In Vietnam, Pocari Sweat aims to be a "reliable source of support for the sports community." Co-organizing the "Dream of Japanese Football" project is one way the Japanese ion supply drink brand fulfills this commitment.
Tung Anh
"Dream of Japanese Football" Project, season 1, for young football enthusiasts:
: Age: 13–14 (born between 1/8/2010 and 2/8/2012)
: Time: June-August
: Prize: Two outstanding candidates will participate in a training course in Japan with Tokushima Vortis in March 2026 (expected)
