Defeating U23 South Korea in a thrilling 11-meter penalty shootout, U23 Vietnam miraculously secured the bronze medal.

However, Coach Kim Sang-sik’s team managed to win a dramatic 7-6 shootout on penalties.

Both teams provided a highly intense match with excellent technical quality, where U23 Vietnam overcame numerous challenges against U23 South Korea.

Compared to the semifinal against U23 China, Coach Kim Sang-sik made nine changes to U23 Vietnam’s starting lineup for the match against U23 South Korea. Except for two mandatory changes—center-backs Hiểu Minh and Lý Đức—this near-complete overhaul surprised experts and fans alike.

U23 South Korea dominated possession and played proactively in the opening minutes of the first half, quickly pushing forward to seek a goal against U23 Vietnam. However, Kim Sang-sik’s players stayed focused and defended tightly.

U23 South Korea also created the first dangerous chance in the 29th minute. From an attack down the left flank, Kang Min-Jun received a pass in a favorable position inside the penalty area and fired a low shot. Yet, goalkeeper Văn Bình made an excellent save.

Meanwhile, U23 Vietnam continued to execute their trademark style of tight defense and quick counterattacks. In the 30th minute, from a swift counter on the left wing, Đình Bắc sprinted down the flank and passed to Quốc Việt. The number 9 striker finished by placing the ball into the right corner of the net, leaving the South Korean goalkeeper helpless.

In the 35th minute, from a left corner kick, Đình Bắc raised his foot high against a South Korean player, and the referee initially pointed to the penalty spot. However, after consulting VAR, the referee decided not to award the penalty to U23 South Korea.

The first half ended with U23 Vietnam leading 1-0.

In the second half, U23 South Korea pushed forward aggressively to find an equalizer. After persistent efforts, Kim Tae Won skillfully turned and struck a precise shot in the 69th minute, beating goalkeeper Văn Bình.

However, South Korea’s joy was short-lived as they soon found themselves trailing again. In the 71st minute, Đình Bắc scored a beautiful free kick from outside the 16.5-meter box, the ball passing through the wall and into the South Korean net, making it 2-1 for U23 Vietnam.

The turning point came in the 86th minute when Đình Bắc received a red card after a reckless tackle on an opponent.

Playing with one less player while under constant pressure, Kim Sang-sik’s men conceded a goal in the final moments. Shin Min Hae equalized in the 90+7th minute, sending the match into extra time at 2-2.

Tied 2-2 after regular time, both teams entered extra time with U23 Vietnam down to 10 players. Nevertheless, Vietnam’s tenacious squad held firm through extra time, forcing the game into a penalty shootout to decide the winner.

In the shootout, both sides continued to deliver intense and precise attempts, tied at 5-5. It was only on the seventh penalty that goalkeeper Văn Bình saved the opponent’s shot, allowing Thanh Nhàn to score and secure victory for U23 Vietnam.

Coach Kim Sang-sik’s team delivered a beautiful, intense, resilient, and deeply emotional match to honor Vietnamese football fans. It was a fitting conclusion for U23 Vietnam in this year’s tournament.