Breaking football news on the morning of June 2: Vietnam U19 secures a big victory

China could pull out, the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 is at a critical crossroads, Cong Hau nets a hat-trick, Vietnam U19 wins big in their debut at the ASEAN U19 tournament; a fresh World Cup regulation affects game outcomes directly, Martinez shares the key to Ronaldo's unending drive, and Sheringham surprises by suggesting Trent Alexander-Arnold to Arsenal

Is China stepping back, turning the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 scenario upside down?

Before rumors emerged about China potentially withdrawing, the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 was expected to bring together all 11 Southeast Asian teams along with three quality guest participants—China, Hong Kong (China), and India—promising to elevate both the professional level and media appeal. However, if China officially decides not to take part, the tournament landscape could shift significantly. The top-seeded group would then shrink to seven teams: Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and India.

The CFA has yet to make a final decision, while Chinese media suggest that this hesitation reflects various strategic considerations ahead of the event. The final outcome remains uncertain, but it is enough to heat up the competition even before the draw.

Cong Hau scores a hat-trick, Vietnam U19 triumphs in their opening match

Vietnam U19 kicked off impressively at the 2026 Southeast Asian U19 Championship by defeating Timor-Leste U19 3-0. In the second minute, Cong Hau capitalized on a sharp through ball from Duc Vu to open the scoring, giving his team early control of the game. Despite creating numerous chances in the first half, Coach Yutaka Ikeuchi's side went into the break with only a minimal advantage after Cong Hau once hit the post.

In the second half, Vietnam U19 faced difficulties as their stamina dropped under the hot weather, while Timor-Leste remained dangerous on the counterattack. However, Cong Hau's class emerged at the right moment with a stunning bicycle kick in the 83rd minute before completing his hat-trick in the 90th. The 3-0 victory not only secured three points for Vietnam U19 on their opening day but also underscored their ambition to go far in this year's tournament.

New World Cup rule takes immediate effect

A regulation set to be implemented at the World Cup has directly influenced a match result for the first time as Japan defeated Iceland by capitalizing on a numerical advantage from a substitution error. In the 85th minute, midfielder Kristian Hlynsson took more than 10 seconds to leave the pitch and did not use the nearest exit, preventing Iceland's incoming player from entering the game. During that period when the opponent had only 10 men, Japan scored the decisive goal through Koki Ogawa to secure the win.

FIFA and IFAB expect the new rule to reduce time-wasting and increase the pace of play. Additionally, several other notable changes—such as a countdown for throw-ins, penalties for reacting to referees, and expanded VAR intervention—will also debut at the upcoming World Cup, promising significant impacts.

Coach Martinez reveals what keeps Ronaldo from stopping

Coach Roberto Martinez believes the secret behind Cristiano Ronaldo maintaining his elite level at age 41 lies not in diet or physical conditioning, but in an unquenchable thirst for achievement. In a recent interview, the Spanish tactician stated that Ronaldo does not play for any specific trophy; he always retains the motivation to improve himself, regardless of how much glory he has already attained.

Martinez said he has worked with many top stars, but very few maintain such an intense competitive spirit as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner after conquering every peak in world football. Therefore, he fully believes Ronaldo will fight to realize his dream of appearing at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.

Although he once admitted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be his last, the prospect of playing on home soil in 2030 seems to open up additional motivation for Ronaldo. With Martinez's support and his consistent goal-scoring form for Al Nassr, the possibility of the Portuguese legend extending his international career for a few more years is becoming a topic of great interest.

Sheringham points out a surprising piece for Arsenal

Despite ending a 22-year wait to win the Premier League, Arsenal still missed out on a dream season after losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. As Mikel Arteta's side looks to strengthen, legendary Teddy Sheringham has made a surprising suggestion: Sign Trent Alexander-Arnold.

According to Sheringham, Arsenal currently boasts one of the most solid defensive systems in Europe but lacks a right-back capable of creating breakthroughs with quality passes and assists. He believes that if playing in an organized environment like Arsenal, Trent can maximize his strengths while improving the defensive shortcomings that have drawn criticism over the years.

This assessment gains further credibility as Ben White frequently faces fitness issues, while Jurrien Timber leans more toward defense than creativity. With passing and assisting abilities among the best in Europe, Trent is seen as a player who could offer Arsenal a new attacking dimension. However, this remains just speculation as the English defender recently joined Real Madrid, and his future is still a big question mark ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window.