U20 Vietnam loses consecutively: What do Indonesian and Thai media say?

U20 Vietnam has just suffered two consecutive home defeats in the 2027 AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers, leaving fans deeply disappointed. After a loss to North Korea (score not detailed), the team led by coach Hua Hien Vinh fell again to Palestine 1-2 at Viet Tri Stadium. This result pushed U20 Vietnam to the bottom of Group C with 0 points, facing early elimination. Notably, Indonesian and Thai media quickly commented on U20 Vietnam's performance. Indonesia's Ngobrolin Ball wrote: "U20 Vietnam continues to disappoint. Despite being rated higher, they lost to Palestine – the team considered the weakest in the group." Meanwhile, Sepakbola – another Indonesian sports outlet – stated: "This was a below-expectation match. Losing to the weakest team in the group at home is a real shock." From Thailand, Mr.Football AEC commented: "U20 Vietnam is facing relegation. If they cannot pass the qualifiers, they will miss the 2029 U20 Asian Cup. This is a wake-up call for Vietnamese youth football." Kiran Buriram, a Thai sports journalist, wrote: "Vietnam once prided itself on having the best young generation in Southeast Asia. But after two losses, that title is being seriously questioned." From a tactical perspective, U20 Vietnam failed to capitalize on home advantage. Viet Tri Stadium with home support should have been a psychological boost, but the team played without cohesion. The defense made several mistakes, especially in set-piece situations. The attack, despite scoring a consolation goal, lacked sharpness to break through Palestine's defense, which was rated lower. Another issue was psychological pressure. Expectations from fans and domestic media affected the young players. Two consecutive losses have demoralized the team, making the final match against Iran even more daunting. In terms of format, U20 Vietnam still has a chance to advance if they beat Iran by a margin of 2 goals or more, or win by 1 goal while scoring 3 or more (depending on the result of North Korea vs Palestine). However, this scenario is very difficult as Iran has 3 points and is rated higher. If they fail to win, U20 Vietnam will be officially eliminated and face relegation in the next qualifying cycle. Domestic public reaction has also been harsh. On football forums, many fans criticize the coaching staff's tactics and question the quality of youth training. Some argue that the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) needs changes in personnel and development direction. Looking broadly, this defeat is not just an immediate shock but raises long-term issues for Vietnamese youth football. While Indonesia and Thailand are investing heavily in their U20 levels, Vietnam seems to be falling behind. The "golden generation" that was once expected is now at risk of collapse. The final match between U20 Vietnam and U20 Iran will take place on September 29 at Viet Tri Stadium. This is a do-or-die match, not only for the ticket to advance but also for the honor and future of Vietnamese youth football. Can the young players overcome the pressure to create a miracle? The answer will come in a few days. The lesson from these two losses is clear: youth football needs not only talent but also composure, sound tactics, and thorough preparation. U20 Vietnam has lost home advantage, lost confidence, and is now at risk of losing its regional standing. It is time for the VFF and stakeholders to review the entire youth training system, from selection, coaching to international competition. Indonesian and Thai media may be raising eyebrows, but that is a mirror reflecting reality. Without change, Vietnam will continue to hear criticism from regional rivals for years to come.