Vietnam edge Saudi Arabia to advance as Group A winners at U23 Asian Cup

Vietnam absorbed sustained pressure for much of the match, with Saudi Arabia registering 26 shots but failing to convert their chances. 

Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien made several key saves in the second half to keep Vietnam level.

Vietnam scored the decisive goal in the 65th minute through substitute Nguyen Dinh Bac, who cut past a defender and fired a left-footed shot from a tight angle past goalkeeper Hamed Al Shanqiti.

Saudi Arabia struggled to respond after conceding, with many efforts either blocked or off target despite continued possession. 

Vietnam remained disciplined defensively while threatening on the counterattack.

In the other Group A match, Jordan defeated Kyrgyzstan 1-0.

Vietnam will face either Syria or the United Arab Emirates in the quarterfinals at 10:30 pm (Vietnam time) on Friday. 

Jordan also advanced as Group A second-finishers, while Saudi Arabia and Kyrgyzstan were eliminated.

The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup, held in Saudi Arabia from January 6 to 24, features four groups of four teams, with the top two in each group advancing to the quarterfinals.