12 teams compete in the National U17 Finals

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Secretary General of the Vietnam Football Federation, Dinh Thi Thu Trang, stated that the success of the Vietnam U17 team in qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup 2026 for the first time confirmed the correct direction of the youth football investment and training strategy in recent years. The National U17 Finals provide an important environment for young players to compete, gain experience, gradually improve their skills, and create a future reserve for the national team.

This year's tournament brings together 12 teams that have passed the qualifying round, divided into three groups. Group A includes: host LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai, The Cong Viettel 1, Da Nang, and PVF; Group B includes: Song Lam Nghe An, Ho Chi Minh City Club, PVF-CAND, and Dong Nai; Group C includes: Hanoi, Hue, Dong Thap, and Lam Dong.

According to the organizing committee's assessment, the groups are balanced in strength, promising exciting competitions. Group A is considered the highlight, featuring traditional youth training centers such as PVF, The Cong Viettel, and host LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai. Meanwhile, defending champion Hanoi will begin its title defense journey in Group C facing fierce competition from rivals.

On behalf of the sponsor, Mr. Joseph Ryan Consul, Marketing Director of URC Vietnam Co., Ltd., stated that the tournament is not only a competition among teams but also contributes to inspiring and fostering the spirit of effort and determination among young players. The tournament continues to motivate young talents to develop and pursue professional football careers.

The National U17 Football Championship Finals - Red Dragon Cup 2026 will take place from July 16 to 29 at Pleiku Stadium and Ham Rong Sports Center (Gia Lai). Matches will be broadcast live on VTVcab's sports ecosystem and the official media platforms of the VFF.

Right after the opening ceremony, two key matches in Group A took place: the host U17 LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai against U17 The Cong Viettel 1, and PVF against SHB Da Nang. These opening matches promise to bring a vibrant and exciting atmosphere to this year's tournament, where many promising players are expected to continue demonstrating their abilities and aim for the national team level.