Vietnam's U19 team defeated Timor Leste convincingly in their opening match of the Southeast Asian tournament.

(Football result) - Vietnam's U19 team triumphed over Timor Leste with a 3-0 scoreline in the opening match of the 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship.

Vietnam U19 had a dream start, scoring within just two minutes. From a sharp through ball by Duc Vu, Hoang Cong Hau sprinted forward, faced the goalkeeper, and coolly slotted home to give his side a 1-0 lead. However, after the early goal, the red-shirted defense occasionally lost focus, allowing Timor Leste U19 to create several notable counterattacks.

After an initial burst of energy, Vietnam U19 continued to control the game and created numerous dangerous opportunities. However, their forwards failed to convert the final chances. The most unfortunate moment came in the 35th minute when the duo of Duc Vu and Cong Hau combined well inside the box, but the number 9's close-range shot hit the post. The first half ended with a 1-0 advantage for the hosts.

In the second half, Vietnam U19's pressure dropped significantly as players began to tire under the hot weather. The red-shirted team struggled to mount attacks, while Timor Leste U19 remained a threat on the counter. Nevertheless, the difference came in the 83rd minute when Hoang Cong Hau received a cross from a teammate and executed a spectacular overhead kick to double the lead.

The second goal boosted Vietnam U19's morale in the final minutes. In the 90th minute, Timor Leste's defense made another marking error, allowing Hoang Cong Hau to score again, completing an impressive hat-trick. The 3-0 victory gave Vietnam U19 a smooth start and affirmed their strength against the opponent from Timor Leste.

Full time: Vietnam U19 3-0 Timor Leste U19

90' Goal! Vietnam U19 extends the lead to 3-0

Hoang Cong Hau completed his hat-trick. Timor Leste's defense was too lax in marking Hoang Cong Hau in that situation.

83' Goal! Vietnam U19 scores to make it 2-0

The scorer is again Hoang Cong Hau. Receiving a cross from a teammate, the number 9 striker executed a beautiful overhead kick.

72' No more goals likely

Vietnam U19 seems to have tired after playing under the afternoon sun; their touches are no longer as precise as desired.

64' Need to be cautious

Timor Leste U19 still shows potential danger from fast transitions. Vietnam U19's defense needs to stay focused.

55' Still no goal

Vietnam U19's pressure has actually decreased compared to the second half. Their attacking options appear extremely stuck.

46' Second half begins

End of first half: Vietnam U19 1-0 Timor Leste U19

35' No goal!

Cong Hau and Duc Vu once again found each other inside Timor Leste's box. Unfortunately, the close-range shot hit the post.

24' Still no second goal

Vietnam U19 continues to circulate the ball quite smoothly and has plenty of chances to shoot. However, the final shots need to be more precise.

12' Vietnam U19 needs to stay more focused

Even though the opponent is only Timor Leste, Vietnam U19 is allowing them too many dangerous shots. The defense needs to play more concentrated.

2' Goal! Vietnam U19 opens the scoring very early

Duc Vu delivered an impressive through ball for Hoang Cong Hau to break through, face the goalkeeper, and easily score.

1' Match begins

Vietnam U19 starting lineup:

Timor Leste U19 starting lineup:

What time is the match between Vietnam U19 and Timor Leste U19, and where can I watch it live?

• Time: 7:15 PM on February 24
• Venue: North Sumatra Stadium (Medan, Indonesia)
• Tournament: 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship
• Live on: TV360

Notable information before the Vietnam U19 vs. Timor Leste U19 match:

Vietnam U19 will begin their campaign at the 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship by facing Timor Leste U19. This is seen as a favorable opportunity for coach Yutaka Ikeuchi's side to aim for their first victory, thereby gaining an advantage in the race for a spot in the next round. With a well-invested squad and thorough preparation, the young Vietnamese team is considered superior to their opponent in many aspects.

Vietnam U19's strength lies in their ability to control the game and their flexibility in attacking plans. Many players in the current squad have gained experience in national youth tournaments, making their play more cohesive. If they maintain a high tempo and impose their game from the start, Vietnam U19 can certainly put significant pressure on the opponent's defense.

Meanwhile, Timor Leste U19 will likely adopt a defensive counter-attacking style to limit space in front of goal. Although they lack standout individuals, this team often plays with determination and is not afraid of physical contact. Therefore, Vietnamese players must avoid complacency and make the most of the opportunities created.

Considering the relative strength and objectives of both teams, Vietnam U19 has strong grounds to secure all three points on opening day. A safe-margin victory would not only give the young Vietnamese team a smooth start but also create positive momentum for the important matches ahead.

Prediction: Vietnam U19 wins 4-1.

Predicted lineups for the Vietnam U19 vs. Timor Leste U19 match

• Vietnam U19:Bao Ngoc; Hoang Nam, Quoc Khanh, Viet Anh, Xuan Khai, Quang Anh, Duc Vu, Hong Phong, Thien Phu, Van Bach, Manh Dung.
• Timor Leste U19:Domigos; Rui Juman, Carol Waitila, Aureo Viera, Emidio Santos; Jonerson, Quiton, Carvalho, Corsino Lemos, Canavaro, Guterrers.