In the semi-final on 25/7, Vietnam conceded an early goal to the Philippines in the 36th minute. However, the team rallied to win 2-1 thanks to goals from Nguyen Dinh Bac in the 41st minute and Nguyen Xuan Bac in the 54th minute.

Midfielder Viktor Le asserted that this result wasn't enough. "We can't be satisfied," the Russian-Vietnamese player said after the match. "We have to win, we have to be champions. Only then will we be a little satisfied."

Midfielder Viktor Le (left) playing in Vietnam's 2-1 victory over the Philippines in the 2025 AFF U23 Championship semi-final at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, on 25/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

Against the Philippines, Vietnam played their most attacking football of the tournament. The team was unlucky to be denied by the woodwork three times, but they found a way to overcome the challenges and secure a place in the final.

"We played hard for the full 90 minutes, pressing, fighting, and winning convincingly," Viktor Le said. "I'm always grateful to play for the national team and will prepare the best I can for the final."

Viktor Le only received Vietnamese citizenship in January. This is his first official tournament for a Vietnamese national team.

The 2003-born midfielder started in the 2-1 win against Cambodia and came off the bench in the other two matches. He was tested in a forward position but struggled playing with his back to goal against Cambodia. When moved back to midfield and given more freedom on the wing, Viktor performed better, creating several chances for Vietnam in the final 25 minutes against the Philippines.

"He is an important player for the team," said coach Kim Sang-sik. "Viktor needs to improve in some areas, such as ball retention, finishing ability, and confidence."

Viktor Le now has the opportunity to win his first title. He and Vietnam will face hosts Indonesia in the final on 29/7 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

The Vietnam squad currently has five players who won the 2023 tournament: goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien, midfielders Nguyen Van Truong, Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Phi Hoang, and forward Nguyen Quoc Viet. Quoc Viet was also part of the 2022 AFF U23 Championship winning team.

Hieu Luong