With the group standings finely balanced, the encounter is widely regarded as a pivotal fixture in the race for a place in the knockout stage.

Head coach Kim Sang-sik’s side head into the match in confident mood following their impressive 2-0 victory over Jordan. Vietnam have also received a boost in personnel, with striker Thanh Nhan returning to full training after injury. While his chances of starting remain uncertain, his recovery gives the coaching staff an additional attacking option, particularly in scenarios where an early goal is required to control the game.

Up front, young striker Le Phat has continued to impress after earning his first start for Vietnam. The 19-year-old is expected to retain his place, as Vietnam are likely to maintain their disciplined approach, focusing on midfield control and making effective use of set-piece situations - a proven strength in their opening match on January 5.

Kyrgyzstan, meanwhile, enter the contest facing a significant setback. Midfield anchor Arsen Sharshenbekov will miss the match after receiving a straight red card in their opening defeat to hosts Saudi Arabia. The absence of Sharshenbekov, regarded as the team’s key playmaker and defensive shield, is anticipated to disrupt Kyrgyzstan’s midfield balance against a well-organised Vietnamese side.

Despite the loss, the Central Asian team are not to be underestimated. Kyrgyzstan boast superior physical attributes, relying on strength, aerial ability and aggressive duels in midfield – the factors that could pose challenges for Vietnam’s defence.

Historically, Vietnam hold a clear edge. The Southeast Asian side reached the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup in 2018 and advanced to the quarter-finals in 2022 and 2024. By contrast, this marks Kyrgyzstan’s first appearance at the tournament.

Recent form also favours Vietnam, who have won four of their last five matches, scoring 10 goals and conceding just three. Kyrgyzstan, meanwhile, have lost three of their previous five games, allowing 12 goals.

However, Vietnam face disadvantages in physical metrics. They rank among the shortest and lightest teams at the tournament, while Kyrgyzstan enjoy a clear advantage in height and strength. As a result, set pieces are expected to remain a crucial weapon for Kim Sang-sik’s side.

In terms of squad valuation, Kyrgyzstan are also rated higher. According to Transfermarkt, their squad are valued at approximately EUR4 million, compared with Vietnam’s EUR3.13 million.

In this context, the ability to impose early control and score first could prove decisive. A victory would place Vietnam within touching distance of the knockout round and further underline their status as one of the most experienced teams at the AFC U23 Asian Cup.

Vietnam U23 open AFC U23 Asian Cup with composed win over Jordan

VOV.VN - Vietnam U23 opened their AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over Jordan U23, underlining the squad’s tactical discipline and match control.