In the first half, U23 China dominated possession with 63%, though their efforts were largely limited to long-range shots that failed to hit the target.
In the 25th minute, U23 Viet Nam created a good chance with a free-kick from Khuat Van Khang, but goalkeeper Li Hao managed to dive and make a fine save.
Shortly afterwards, U23 Viet Nam suffered a major blow when Hieu Minh picked up an injury while attempting to make a challenge and had to be stretchered off, consequently posing a huge loss for U23 Viet Nam. Head coach Kim Sang-sik decided to bring on centre-back Duc Anh to replace Hieu Minh. The first half ended goalless.
In the 48th minute, from a corner kick, centre-back Peng Xiao rose highest to head home from close range, giving U23 China the lead. Just two minutes later, Xiang Yuwang fired in a low, powerful shot to make it 2-0.
After conceding two quick goals, U23 Viet Nam had to push higher up the pitch and bolster their attacking options. However, with the midfield unable to gain control of the game, U23 Viet Nam’s attacks lacked cohesion and effectiveness.
Matters worsened in the 74th minute when Ly Duc received a straight red card and was sent off.
Despite being a man down, U23 Viet Nam continued to push forward in the closing stages in search of a consolation goal, but the players could not break through the opposition defence or were thwarted by goalkeeper Li Hao.
In the 90+8th minute, U23 China launched a swift counter-attack, and Wang Yudong finished clinically to seal a 3-0 victory.
Although they could not secure a place in the final, U23 Viet Nam’s performance throughout the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup finals showed many positive signs, particularly in terms of fighting spirit, tactical organisation, and resilience against some of the continent’s top teams.
Following the defeat, U23 Viet Nam will face U23 Republic of Korea in the third-place play-off, scheduled for 10 p.m. on January 23.
