Vietnam U20 face biggest danger in nearly 20 years at AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers

Vietnam U20 have endured their worst start in AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers since 2026, losing consecutively to North Korea (0-3) and Palestine (1-2) in Group C. With zero points and a -4 goal difference, coach Ikeuchi's side sit at the bottom of the group, facing a dual risk: missing the 2027 finals in China and potentially being relegated to the Development Round from 2026 under AFC's new format. Looking back at history since 2026, Vietnam has never had such a poor start. In 12 previous campaigns, the team always had at least one win in the first two matches. The last time they failed to win a match was 2026, but the format was different then. In 2026, despite losing the first two, they beat Guam 17-0 in the final match to advance. But this year, their final opponent is Iran – a much stronger team than North Korea and Palestine, with an overwhelming head-to-head record. According to expert analysis, Vietnam's path to advancement is narrower than ever. Only eight group winners and seven best runners-up qualify. Vietnam are bottom with 0 points, while North Korea have 6, Palestine and Iran both have 3 but Iran lead on goal difference. The final match on September 6 between Vietnam and Iran will decide their fate. If they lose, Vietnam will finish last and become one of the six worst teams relegated to the Development Round – a new format introduced from 2026 for the weakest teams. This is the first time AFC has applied such a rule, adding extra pressure. Coach Ikeuchi, selected by VFF for his extensive youth development experience at JFA (Japan Football Association), previously coached Japan's U15 and U17 teams and participated in coach training. He is expected to build a long-term foundation for Vietnamese youth football. However, the initial results have worried fans. The two losses reveal a lack of cohesion and failure to convert chances. Tactical details have not been released, but clearly Vietnam U20 are struggling defensively and in transition. Domestic media have called this campaign 'the narrowest door in nearly 20 years'. Compared to previous editions, Vietnam had qualified nine times, but never started this poorly. In 2026, they won the first two matches. In 2026, one win and one draw. In 2026, two wins. In 2026, one win one loss. In 2026, two wins. In 2026, one win one draw. In 2026, one win one loss. In 2026, two wins. Only 2026 was similar with two opening losses, but the format was different and the final opponent was weak Guam. This year, Iran are much stronger. Vietnam's only chance is to beat Iran and hope Palestine lose to North Korea, creating a three-way tie on 3 points. Then head-to-head goal difference would decide. But given current form, this possibility is very low. If they lose to Iran, Vietnam will finish with 0 points, the first time in history they have no points in U20 Asian Cup qualifiers. This would severely impact the development of this generation and the reputation of Vietnamese youth football. Coach Ikeuchi has emphasized that youth development is a long-term process requiring patience. However, pressure from public opinion and results is mounting. If they fail to qualify, VFF may need to reconsider its strategy. The cooperation with JFA through hiring Ikeuchi is expected to bring advanced training methods, but on-field results are the ultimate measure. The match against Iran on September 6 will be a do-or-die battle. Vietnam's young players must show the highest fighting spirit, seize every scoring chance, and keep a clean sheet. Though chances are slim, football always has surprises. Fans still hope for a miracle, but the reality is that this is the biggest challenge for Vietnamese youth football in nearly two decades. In summary, Vietnam U20 are facing the biggest danger in their history: not only missing the finals but also being relegated to the Development Round. All eyes are on the final match, where coach Ikeuchi's squad must fight for honor and the future.