In the U22 age group, Vietnam has never defeated Uzbekistan. On the Song Luu field on 15/11, the team lost 0-1, with Saidkhon Khamidov scoring in the 4th minute. Coach Dinh Hong Vinh assessed Uzbekistan as a strong, well-organized team with international experience.
"The early goal forced some changes, but the team maintained composure and did not get drawn into the opponent's pace," Coach Hong Vinh said after the match. "I am satisfied with the players' effort and attitude, though there are areas for improvement in final third execution and the ability to maintain pressing rhythm."
 |
Vietnamese midfielder Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong (red jersey) plays in the 0-1 loss to Uzbekistan at the U22 Panda Cup 2025 friendly tournament, held at Song Luu field, Chengdu, Sichuan province, China on 15/11. Photo: UFA |
Vietnamese midfielder Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong (red jersey) plays in the 0-1 loss to Uzbekistan at the U22 Panda Cup 2025 friendly tournament, held at Song Luu field, Chengdu, Sichuan province, China on 15/11. Photo: UFA
Vinh noted that focus helped Vietnam maintain their game, creating several chances to equalize. However, Nguyen Dinh Bac and Le Van Thuan missed opportunities, notably Nguyen Ngoc My's header hitting the crossbar in the final minute.
"This result is disappointing. We lacked a bit of luck," Coach Hong Vinh stated. "However, the objective of a friendly tournament is to build team cohesion, assess players, and gain experience for official competitions."
This marks the third consecutive time Vietnam has not defeated Uzbekistan in the Panda Cup. Previously, the team lost 0-2 in 9/2024 and drew 0-0 in 3/2025.
This result gave the Central Asian representative their first victory in the tournament, following a 0-2 loss to South Korea in their opening match on 12/11. They now have three points, like Vietnam, but rank lower due to an inferior goal difference (-1 compared to 0). Meanwhile, South Korea leads with a +2 goal difference, with one match remaining against China.
The final matchday will take place on 18/11, when Vietnam faces South Korea. In the Panda Cup in 3/2025, the two teams drew 1-1.
Coach Dinh Hong Vinh assessed the East Asian representative as high quality, mobile, fast, and playing a modern style. "We will consider the physical condition of each player for appropriate adjustments. Some players need more game time for the coaching staff to evaluate," he stated. "The goal is to play in an organized manner, maintain good team shape, and improve final execution."
Hieu Luong
