Vietnam name full-strength squad for U23 Asian Cup semi against China

Forward Nguyen Dinh Bac and winger Le Van Thuan both trained normally in Vietnam’s final session on Monday in Saudi Arabia, removing injury concerns ahead of the match scheduled for 10:30 pm (Vietnam time).

The session served as Vietnam’s final rehearsal as they target a place in the final, with coach Kim Sang Sik expected to keep faith in a settled starting line-up that has impressed throughout the tournament.

Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien is set to retain his place, while the back three of Nguyen Hieu Minh, Nguyen Nhat Minh, and Ly Duc is unlikely to change.

Wing-backs Pham Minh Phuc and Nguyen Phi Hoang are also expected to start.

In midfield, Nguyen Thai Son and Nguyen Xuan Bac are fit and in good form, with Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong available from the bench.

Dinh Bac is likely to lead the attack, supported by Nguyen Le Phat and Khuat Van Khang, while Nguyen Thanh Nhan provides an attacking option among the substitutes.

China are expected to adopt a cautious, defensive approach aimed at extending the match into extra time or penalties, as they have done earlier in the tournament.

Victory would send Vietnam into the U23 Asian Cup final for the second time, after their runners-up finish in 2018 under former coach Park Hang Seo.

The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup is being held in Saudi Arabia from January 6 to 24.

The Vietnam–China game is broadcast on domestic television platforms including TV360, FPT Play, VTV5, and HTV Sports.

The other semifinal between Japan and South Korea takes place at 6:30 pm (Vietnam time) the same day.