The win marks Vietnam’s first triumph against a Central Asian side at the tournament.

Kyrgyzstan started the match with confidence, creating two early attempts on goal, both saved by Vietnamese goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien.

After the initial cautious period, Vietnam took control of the game. In the 14th minute, from a handball inside the box by a Kyrgyz player, Khuat Van Khang calmly converted the resulting penalty to give Vietnam the lead.

Despite dominating possession, Vietnam conceded an equalizer in the 44th minute. A mispass from midfielder Nguyen Hieu Minh allowed Marlen Murzakhmatov to strike from distance, leaving Trung Kien with no chance, leveling the score 1-1 going into halftime.

In the second half, coach Kim Sang-sik made three strategic substitutions, introducing Dinh Bac, Quoc Cuong, and Van Thuan to boost Vietnam’s attacking options.

Vietnam created multiple scoring chances but had to wait until the 87th minute to secure the winning goal. From a left-wing corner taken by Dinh Bac, Ly Duc delivered a precise cross for Van Thuan, who executed a close-range header. The ball deflected off Brauzman and went into the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

The result significantly improves Vietnam’s position in Group A and keeps their path to the knockout stage well within reach, while Kyrgyzstan became the first team eliminated from the tournament in Saudi Arabia.

Vietnam will face hosts Saudi Arabia in the last group A match, hoping to earn a spot in the quarterfinals.

Vietnam play Kyrgyzstan in decisive AFC U23 Asian Cup group clash

VOV.VN - Vietnam will look to build on their opening-match victory when they take on Kyrgyzstan in their second Group A match at the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 on January 9.