The final Group C match, scheduled for May 14 (Vietnam time), is being viewed as a make-or-break encounter for head coach Cristiano Roland and his players in their bid to advance to the quarter-finals and secure a World Cup berth.

The squad’s latest training session focused primarily on physical recovery and mental preparation following an exhausting match against the Republic of Korea (RoK) on May 10.

The coaching staff adjusted the workload accordingly, with starting players from the previous game assigned light exercises, recovery work and stretching routines.

Substitutes and less-used players, meanwhile, completed more intensive sessions combining fitness training and tactical drills to maintain readiness.

Before training, coach Roland spent time speaking with the squad to reinforce morale and maintain confidence after the team’s spirited performance against the RoK. The Brazilian coach praised his players for their fighting spirit but also stressed the importance of learning from mistakes made during key moments of the game.

After two group-stage matches, Vietnam is still firmly in contention for a quarter-final place. The most straightforward scenario is a victory over the UAE, which would guarantee qualification regardless of the outcome of another Group C encounter between the RoK and Yemen.

A draw could also be enough, provided RoK do not lose to Yemen. The team’s chances are still considered realistic if they maintain the same fighting spirit shown in recent performances under Roland. Vietnam could also progress with a draw if the RoK avoid defeat against Yemen.

The match between Vietnam and the UAE is scheduled for 12:00 a.m. on May 14 (Vietnam time).

AFC praises Vietnam ahead of match against RoK at AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026

VOV.VN - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has praised Vietnam ahead of the team’s crucial match against the Republic of Korea (RoK) at the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026.