Vietnam U23 vs Uzbekistan U23: A draw enough to advance - Coach Dinh Hong Vinh makes two changes

Vietnam U23 meet Uzbekistan U23 at 12:00 in the final Group C match of the men's football tournament at the 2026 Asian Games. Vietnam only need a draw to advance, while a win would secure first place. Coach Dinh Hong Vinh has made two changes to the starting XI: Nguyen Le Phat replaces Quoc Viet as the central striker, and Le Dinh Long Vu replaces Phi Hoang at left-back for his first start of the tournament. The defensive core remains unchanged, with goalkeeper Cao Van Binh and the back three of Duc Anh, Nguyen Hoang and Pham Ly Duc. The central midfield pair of Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong and Xuan Bac also keeps their places. Vietnam are expected to use a compact defensive block and quick transitions, with wingers Ngoc My and Thanh Nhan providing the main counter-attacking threat. Both have already scored at the Asian Games. Uzbekistan have already qualified as group leaders with six points and seven goals scored, but they still need a result to protect top spot. The two teams last met at U22 level in 2026, drawing 0-0 and then Uzbekistan winning 1-0. If Vietnam lose, they will depend on the other Group C game between Philippines and Kuwait. Key risks include Long Vu's lack of tournament experience and the psychological impact on Quoc Viet of being benched. Playing at noon also raises fitness and heat-management concerns. A draw is a reasonable expectation, but Vietnam will aim to control the tempo and make the most of counter-attacking moments. The match is a major test of Vietnamese youth football and will shape the team's path in the knockout stage. Vietnam have scored three goals in two matches, with Ngoc My, Thanh Nhan and Nguyen Le Phat all on the scoresheet. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, have been the most impressive side in the group, beating Philippines 5-1 and Kuwait 2-0 while playing with ten men from the 48th minute in the latter game. The teams are meeting in a decisive context, and both have something to protect. Vietnam's recent U22 record against Uzbekistan suggests they can compete, but the gap in quality remains visible. Whatever the result, this match will serve as valuable experience for a young Vietnamese squad aiming to establish themselves on the continental stage.