* Vietnam - UAE: 22:30 on Friday, 16/1, on VnExpress.

"Vietnam plays cohesively, defends robustly, adheres to tactics, and transitions well for counter-attacks," remarked the Uruguayan coach. "They are a very capable team and are having a successful tournament."

At this year's U23 Asia Cup, Vietnam surprised many by securing victories against Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, and host Saudi Arabia. This marks the first time Vietnam has advanced as group winners in 26 group stage appearances across continental tournaments, including the Asian Cup, U23, U20, and U17 competitions. In contrast, UAE finished second in group B with four points, after defeating Qatar, drawing with Syria, and losing to Japan.

The coach Broli press conference after UAE's 1-1 draw with Syria in the final group B match of the U23 Asia Cup 2026, at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium on 13/1/2026. Photo: AFC

Historically, UAE holds an advantage in eight previous encounters, with four draws and four wins. Five of these were official matches: Asiad 14 in 2002 (0-0), Asiad 17 round of 16 in 2014 (3-1), U23 Asia Cup 2016 group stage (3-2), Asiad 18 bronze medal match in 2018 (1-1, 4-3 on penalties), and U23 Asia Cup 2020 group stage (0-0). In their two most recent matches at this level, UAE lost 3-3 and 4-0 in friendly games in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

According to coach Broli, he and his coaching staff will conduct a deeper analysis of Vietnam's playing style and personnel in the coming days. "We need to identify their weaknesses. But fundamentally, we already have a clear idea of what we need to prepare to maximize our strength when facing Vietnam," stated the coach, born in 1978.

Main developments of UAE's 1-1 draw with Syria.

Broli is known for his success in leading youth teams. He previously won the U20 Copa Libertadores, the highest club-level tournament in South America, with Penarol of Uruguay. One year later, he led his home country's national team to their first U20 World Cup title in 2023, held in Argentina.

Since 2024, Broli has been coaching the U23 UAE team, implementing a playing style focused on building play from the back and an attacking philosophy. However, the Uruguayan coach also flexibly adapts his tactics to suit each match, such as employing a defensive counter-attacking approach against Syria last night.

One pressing concern for coach Broli is UAE's finishing ability. "We are aware of this weakness, and it needs to be improved before the quarterfinal match against Vietnam. The best way to change this is through continuous training and increased focus to advance further," he said.

The U23 Asia Cup 2026 quarterfinal match between UAE and Vietnam is scheduled for 22:30 on 16/1 Hanoi time, at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah.

Hieu Luong