Japan’s U17 team, a highly-rated side, experienced a frustrating draw against Vietnam’s U17 team in their second match of Group B at the AFC U17 Championship. This setback makes their World Cup dream increasingly difficult.

Bitter Defeat in Added Time

Japan U17 started the match impressively, taking an early lead in the 13th minute courtesy of Minato Yoshida’s goal. The Japanese team dominated much of the game, but Vietnam’s U17 demonstrated composure and determination, creating a surprising turnaround. In the 90+4th minute, a penalty awarded to Vietnam, Gia Bảo capitalized on the opportunity, drawing the match level.

Coach Nozomi Hiroyama admitted the result was “bitter,” noting Vietnam’s disciplined and tightly-packed defensive play.

A Tough Lesson and Mistakes Made

Following the match, Coach Hiroyama openly acknowledged their team’s errors. Japan U17 struggled to create openings against Vietnam’s strong defense. A lack of coordination between lines, particularly the central defense and wing-backs, presented opportunities for Vietnam. The team also conceded that their tactical approach lacked cohesion, unable to find an effective strategy to counter Vietnam’s pressure in the final stages of the match.

The Japanese players expressed surprise at Vietnam’s disciplined and tough style of play, highlighting that Asian teams were not as straightforward as they had imagined. This draw also served as a reminder of the determination and improvement of regional rivals.

The Road Ahead

This draw places significant pressure on Japan U17 in the group stage. Their final match against UAE U17 on April 10th will be crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup. Meanwhile, Vietnam U17 needs a victory over UAE U17 to secure their own position in the race for World Cup qualification.

The match between Vietnam U17 and UAE U17 promises to be highly significant, with exciting developments anticipated throughout the competition.

Japan’s U17 national team suffered a heartbreaking draw against Vietnam’s U17 team in the AFC U17 Championship, losing their chance for a place in the final round in the final minutes. Coach Nozomi Hiroyama and his players acknowledged tactical and mental errors, providing a valuable lesson before crucial upcoming matches.

90+4 Minute Heartbreak

Japan, favored to win, took the lead in the 13th minute. However, in the dying moments of the match, Vietnam capitalized on their opportunity, scoring a penalty to draw level, leaving the Japanese team with a frustrating draw.

Disappointment for Japan’s Coach and Players

Coach Nozomi Hiroyama admitted the result was “bitter” for Japan’s U17 team. He noted Vietnam’s disciplined and tightly-knit play, hindering Japan’s efforts to create scoring opportunities.

“This is a bitter pill to swallow, but a necessary one,” shared Coach Hiroyama. “Our opponents are improving and well-prepared. Losing in the final minutes helps our players mature.” Japanese players also acknowledged the difficulty of competing against Asian teams. Taito Kanda pointed out the previous year’s 0-1 loss to Vietnam U16 (the core of the current U17 team), highlighting the challenging nature of facing Vietnam.

Tactical and Mental Errors

Analysis of the match revealed tactical mistakes, particularly Japan’s overly wide defensive spacing, creating opportunities for Vietnam. The team’s defensive lapses in the final minutes also require further attention.

Inconsistency between pressing and defense was also identified as a key area for improvement.

Vietnam’s Final Chance

The draw against Japan provides Vietnam with a crucial opportunity to advance to the final round of the AFC U17 Championship. Their upcoming match against UAE on April 10th will be a decisive test.

It is hoped that Vietnam will seize this opportunity, secure a victory, and advance to the final round of this prestigious tournament.