U23 Vietnam is gearing up for their first match at ASIAD 20, where they will take on U23 Kuwait on September 15. This tournament marks an important opportunity for the team as they aim to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. After their opening match, U23 Vietnam will have a brief three-day break before facing U23 Philippines on September 18, and they will conclude the group stage against U23 Uzbekistan on September 22.

Among their group opponents, U23 Uzbekistan is anticipated to be the most formidable challenge for coach Dinh Hong Vinh and his squad. The outcome of the earlier matches could significantly influence the team's strategy and player selection for this critical encounter.

U23 Vietnam has set a clear target for the tournament: to reach the quarter-finals. Coach Dinh Hong Vinh has assembled a talented roster of 23 players, including notable talents like Cao Van Binh, Nguyen Minh Phuc, and Nguyen Thanh Nhan. However, the team will be without some key players, such as Nguyen Dinh Bac and Nguyen Nhat Minh, who are currently allocated to the national team competing in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.

The team arrived in Japan on September 13 and has only two days to prepare before their opening match. This short preparation time necessitates a focus on stabilizing their lineup, recovering their fitness, and developing effective tactical plans.

The men's football tournament at ASIAD 20 features 15 teams divided into four groups, with three groups containing four teams and one group with three teams. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.