Despite hitting the post and crossbar multiple times, Kim Sang-sik's side secured three points on Wednesday and improved their goal difference over Yemen to top Group C.

Nguyen Ngoc My (number 19) celebrates after scoring for Vietnam in the U23 Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh in Viet Tri Stadium, northern Vietnam, on Sept. 3, 2025.

Striker Nguyen Ngoc My and midfielder Viktor Le both scored their first goals for the U23 team in an official tournament, giving the hosts a strong start at the tournament.

After a careful approach in the first minutes, Vietnam quickly gained control. In the 15th minute, Dinh Bac skillfully hold the ball in midfield before sending it to Ngoc My, who broke the offside trap. The 21-year-old striker curled the ball into the far corner in a one-on-one situation and made it 1-0.

Vietnam continued the momentum, with players hitting the post and missing further chances, leaving coach Kim standing at the sideline in concern.

In the second half, Vietnam slowed down the tempo but maintained pressure. Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Xuan Bac and Viktor all tried their luck but were blocked by goalkeeper Hasan Srabon. In the 77th minute, Viktor’s close-range shot hit the crossbar, bouncing just above the line, but the goal did not count.

The second goal finally came from a corner. Nguyen Quoc Viet delivered the ball to the far post, where center-back Pham Ly Duc headed it toward goal. Viktor was perfectly positioned to tap in, sealing a 2-0 victory.

Viktor, 22, was born in Moscow, trained at CSKA Moscow’s academy before returning to Vietnam to play for Binh Dinh FC in 2023. He is now a key player for Hong Linh Ha Tinh in the V-League.

The win places Vietnam at the top of Group C, level on points with Yemen but ahead on goal difference, after Yemen beat Singapore 2-1 in their opening match earlier on Wednesday.

The 2026 U23 Asian Cup qualifiers, held from Sept. 3–9, feature 44 teams across 11 groups. The 11 group winners, four best runners-up and hosts Saudi Arabia will advance to the main tournament. Vietnam are in Group C alongside Bangladesh, Singapore and Yemen.

Vietnam will have a Southeast Asian showdown with Singapore on Sept. 6.

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