Neither Vietnam nor China has secured a win in the CFA Team China Cup. Vietnam previously drew 1-1 with North Korea and lost 0-1 to Thailand, while China drew 1-1 with North Korea and 2-2 with Thailand.
Over two months ago, Vietnam suffered a 0-3 defeat to China in the U23 Asia semifinals. For this friendly tournament, however, both teams have assembled different squads.
Vietnam's squad includes only four players from the U23 Asia tournament: goalkeepers Pham Dinh Hai and Cao Van Binh, along with midfielders Nguyen Cong Phuong and Le Van Thuan. China has 10 players who competed in the continental youth championship in Saudi Arabia, with their primary goalkeeper Li Hao absent due to injury.
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U23 Vietnam's starting lineup against North Korea in the opening match of the CFA Team China Cup friendly tournament, afternoon of 25/3. Photo: VFF |
U23 Vietnam's starting lineup against North Korea in the opening match of the CFA Team China Cup friendly tournament, afternoon of 25/3. Photo: VFF
Vietnam was invited to the U23 friendly tournament in China, the CFA Team China Cup, replacing Iran due to conflicts in the Middle East. As the tournament coincides with a FIFA Day, coach Dinh Hong Vinh is leading the team, while coach Kim Sang-sik is with the senior Vietnam national team for Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh and Malaysia.
The CFA Team China Cup, an annual tournament since 2024, provides competitive experience for players under 23 years old. This edition takes place in Xi'an city, Shaanxi Province. Vietnam is a regular participant, having attended all three previous tournaments. The host team and three invited teams compete in a single round-robin format to determine the rankings.
In september 2024, Vietnam lost 1-2 to China and 2-0 to Uzbekistan, then won 2-1 against Malaysia. In march 2025, Vietnam drew 1-1 with South Korea and China, and 0-0 with Uzbekistan. In november 2025, Vietnam defeated China 1-0, then lost 0-1 to Uzbekistan and South Korea.
This tournament helps players gain experience and develop, contributing to the overall performance of the U23 Asia generation. China reached the U23 Asia 2026 final, while Vietnam finished third.
Hong Duy
