U23 Vietnam's Opponent Calls Up Players from Europe for ASIAD 20

As ASIAD 20 approaches, U23 Vietnam's group-stage opponent, U23 Uzbekistan, has drawn attention by announcing a squad list featuring several players currently playing in Europe. This is an important tactical signal that U23 Vietnam's coaching staff must pay close attention to. The most notable name in this list is Mukhammadali Urinboev, who currently plays for Royal Antwerp in the Belgian league. With a transfer value estimated at around 400,000 euros by Transfermarkt, Urinboev is considered one of the highest-valued players at ASIAD 20. His ability to play flexibly as an attacking midfielder and on both wings will pose a major threat to U23 Vietnam's defense. However, what surprised experts was U23 Uzbekistan's decision to use their U21 squad for this tournament. This is a long-term development strategy, as their main goal is preparation for the 2028 Asian U23 Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This decision shows Uzbekistan football's priority on developing young players rather than chasing short-term results. According to the schedule, U23 Uzbekistan will have a friendly match against China on September 10 to test their squad ahead of the tournament. This match is seen as a useful test, helping them get used to international competition pressure before entering the group stage. With U23 Uzbekistan using a young squad, many might think this is a good opportunity for U23 Vietnam. But in reality, Uzbek youth football has always been highly regarded at the Asian level. From my experience following youth tournaments, Uzbek youth teams often play with high intensity and strong pressing, compensating for their lack of physical size compared to older opponents. U23 Vietnam's group at ASIAD 20 includes Uzbekistan, Kuwait, and the Philippines. This group is considered fairly balanced, with Kuwait in a rebuilding phase and the Philippines being a developing football nation. But no opponent should be underestimated, as a loss to Uzbekistan's youth team would be a major media shock for Vietnamese football. The match between U23 Uzbekistan and U23 Vietnam is scheduled for September 22. This will be a pivotal match that decides the group's fate. With Uzbekistan calling up players from Europe, they show serious preparation despite using a young squad. U23 Vietnam needs thorough preparation and must not be complacent, because Uzbek youth football always has notable players, and Urinboev is a prime example. Tactically, Urinboev's experience in the Belgian league will give him better game-reading ability and tactical discipline compared to his peers. This could make a difference in decisive moments. U23 Vietnam needs a dedicated defensive plan for this player, not only centrally but also on both wings. Another point to note is that U23 Uzbekistan is preparing in Japan, the host country. This shows they are not taking the tournament lightly, but are using good conditions to acclimatize and possibly spar with Japanese youth teams. This further confirms that, despite using a young squad, they are very well prepared. For me, this is a crack in the map of Asian football that few notice. Uzbekistan is not weak; they are simply choosing a longer path. And in football, sleeping giants often wake up just when least expected. U23 Vietnam must view this match as an opportunity to assert Southeast Asian football's position, not as an easy game. Prepare for a real battle, because Uzbek youth football is never easy to beat.