Vietnam’s U23 players celebrate after scoring the winning goal against Yemen to qualify for the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup at Viet Tri Stadium, Phu Tho Province, northern Vietnam, September 9, 2025. Photo: Ngoc Le
Forward Nguyen Thanh Nhan scored the game’s only goal in the 70th minute at Viet Tri Stadium, finishing from inside the box after a quick one-two with a teammate.
Vietnam entered the match needing only a draw to advance, but secured all three points to top the group with nine points from three matches.
Vietnam (in red) and Yemen players in action during their AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifying match at Viet Tri Stadium, Phu Tho Province, northern Vietnam, September 9, 2025. Photo: Ngoc Le
Head coach Kim Sang Sik surprised many by making several unexpected changes to his starting lineup and substituting early in the first half in response to a sluggish opening.
Yemen pushed for an equalizer and created a number of chances, including a dangerous header in stoppage time by Ali Al Dugin that was denied by goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan.
The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup finals are scheduled to take place in January.
