Việt Nam face huge challenges at Asian Cup for U20s

Football

Việt Nam players celebrate their goal in a win over India in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup first qualification round in March, Việt Nam are in tough group for the finals next March in Uzbekistan. VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam have been drawn in Group B with Japan, North Korea and China for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup in Uzbekistan next March.

Eight teams are divided into two groups. Group A features hosts Uzbekistan, South Korea, Australia and Chinese Taipei.

Coach Akira Ijiri of Việt Nam believes that all teams taking part have their strong points. Among them, Japan and North Korea were reigning champions and first runners-up. China has also won the tournament in the past.

He predicted a a tough tournament but said Việt Nam worked hard to advance to the finals and were ready to give it their best shot.

The tournament will begin on March 3 and close on March 16.

Teams will play in round robin format with the best two of each group going through the semi-finals. These four will also qualify for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 2024 in Colombia.

In preparation for the tournament, Vietnamese players will gather for a training session in early 2024 in Hà Nội. VNS