Vietnam miss U23 Asian Cup final after semifinal loss to China
Vietnam were beaten 0-3 by China in the semifinals of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup early on Wednesday, missing out on a place in the finale.
Players of Vietnam (in red) and China compete for the ball during their semifinal at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, January 20, 2026. Photo: AFC
China took control after a scoreless first half and broke the deadlock early in the second period when Peng Xiao headed in from a corner, before Xiang Yuwang doubled the advantage in the 52nd minute with a long-range strike.
Vietnam’s task became harder when defender Pham Ly Duc was shown a straight red card, leaving the team a man down, although a later VAR review overturned a potential third goal for China.
Wang Yudong added a late goal to complete the 3-0 win, sending China into the AFC U23 Asian Cup final for the first time, where they will play Japan on Saturday.
Vietnam will face South Korea in the third-place match on Friday.
The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup is being held in Saudi Arabia from January 6 to 24.
Bao Anh - Duc Khue - Tuan Long / Tuoi Tre News
Link nội dung: https://news.tuoitre.vn/vietnam-miss-u23-asian-cup-final-after-semifinal-loss-to-china-103260121091400864.htm