The Vietnam U-19 football team is currently facing significant challenges in the Asian U-20 qualifiers, having lost both of their initial matches. This disappointing performance has placed them at the bottom of Group C, with their next matches critical for their chances of advancing.

In their recent games, the team has been unable to secure any points, with North Korea leading the group with six points, followed by Iran and Palestine, each with three points. The team’s poor showing has raised concerns about the future of their head coach, Yutaka Ikeuchi, who could be at risk of being replaced if the situation does not improve.

There is speculation that if Ikeuchi is dismissed, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) may consider appointing Hoang Anh Tuan, a seasoned coach with a strong track record in youth football, including successful tenures with the U17, U19, U20, and U23 teams. His experience and previous successes make him a favorable candidate to lead the U-19 team during this challenging period.

As the qualifiers continue, the U-19 team will need to regroup and perform better to have any hope of advancing to the next stage. The pressure is on both the players and the coaching staff to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming matches.