Vietnam U22 National Team and Key Highlights in 2025

At the 33rd SEA Games, Vietnam U22 left a lasting mark through their impressive display, showcasing their fighting spirit and earning a precious gold medal. This achievement was more than just the outcome of matches; it was a clear demonstration of the thorough, scientific, and well-planned preparation by the Vietnam Football Federation.

Thorough Preparation – The Foundation for Success

Before the 33rd SEA Games, the Vietnam U22/U23 team underwent seven training camps and international matches throughout the year, organized continuously during FIFA international windows. Training camps and friendly matches in China, UAE, and games against strong opponents like U23 South Korea, U23 Uzbekistan, and U23 Qatar allowed the young players to experience high-intensity competition, gain international match experience, and gradually build their competitive resilience.

Additionally, participating in and winning the Southeast Asian U23 Championship for the third consecutive time, along with achieving the goal of qualifying for the AFC U23 Championship finals, established a solid psychological and professional foundation, enabling the team to enter the 33rd SEA Games with confidence and strong determination.

Demonstrating Resilience at the 33rd SEA Games

During the event, the Vietnam U22 team played steadily and effectively, advancing from the group stage as winners of Group B, showing a balance between collective gameplay, tactical discipline, and a resilient fighting spirit.

In the semifinal against a determined Philippines team, the Vietnam U22 players maintained focus, controlled the game well, and showed composure at critical moments to secure a convincing victory, earning their place in the final.

The final match against host nation Thailand was the biggest highlight of the 33rd SEA Games. Despite trailing 0-2, the Vietnam U22 team did not give up; through determination, willpower, and resilient play, they gradually regained control, playing more calmly, disciplined, and effectively in the second half. Smart adjustments by the coaching staff and the team's fighting spirit helped Vietnam U22 score three goals, completing an emotional 3-2 comeback victory. This remarkable turnaround not only brought home the prestigious gold medal but also became a symbol of the fighting spirit, ambition, and resilience of Vietnamese youth football.

The Result of Strategic Investment Direction

The success of the Vietnam U22 team at the 33rd SEA Games is the outcome of multiple factors: the focused and long-term investment strategy of the Vietnam Football Federation; scientific coaching and team management by the coaching staff; effective cooperation with clubs; and the unity, determination, and dedication of the players.

Maintaining a continuous preparation plan, emphasizing international competition, and maximizing opportunities for young players to gain experience have helped the Vietnam U22 team not only aim for success at the 33rd SEA Games but also build a strong foundation for the long-term goals of Vietnamese football.

Looking Ahead

The performance of the Vietnam U22 team at the 33rd SEA Games demonstrates the right direction in youth football development. This will serve as an important foundation for the Vietnam Football Federation to continue improving the youth team preparation model, targeting regional and continental competitions in the future, with the aim of continuously elevating Vietnam’s position on the international football map.

(According to VFF)