Players of Vietnam (in red) and Jordan compete during their Group A match at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, January 6, 2026. Photo: AFC
Vietnam beat higher-ranked Jordan on Tuesday in their Group A opener in Saudi Arabia, scoring twice in the first half and then defending solidly to secure three points.
The win put Vietnam top of the group after the first round of matches.
South Korea's Chosunbiz said Vietnam's performance supported the AFC's view that the team could compete for top honors, noting that head coach Kim Sang Sik's side had shown tactical discipline and efficiency against a physically stronger opponent.
Chinese sports outlets, including NetEase's 163.com, said Vietnam had positioned themselves well to advance, describing the team as capable of competing for first place in Group A if they maintain their form.
Indonesia's Bola said Vietnam appeared to hold a competitive edge in Group A, adding that finishing top of the group could prove decisive in avoiding stronger opponents in the knockout rounds.
The AFC had previously identified Vietnam as one of the teams capable of challenging defending champions Japan, describing the side as defensively well organized in tournament previews.
Vietnam opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Nguyen Dinh Bac converted a penalty after a foul in the area.
Nguyen Hieu Minh doubled the lead shortly before half-time, finishing from close range following a cross from the right.
Jordan pressed after the break but failed to score, as Vietnam's goalkeeper and back line repelled several attempts in temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius.
Vietnam next face Kyrgyzstan on Friday before meeting hosts Saudi Arabia in the final group match.
A second straight win would leave Vietnam well placed to qualify for the quarterfinals and strengthen their case as one of the tournament's leading contenders.
The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup, held in Saudi Arabia from Tuesday to January 24, features four groups of four teams, with the top two in each group advancing to the quarterfinals.
Vietnam are in Group A with hosts Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Kyrgyzstan.
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