Futsal

 

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam began their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026 qualifying campaign in style with a resounding 9-1 win over Hong Kong (China) in Group E on September 20.

The team are looking for another win on September 22 against China, who are considered a big obstacle on their way to the final.

During the match, Việt Nam dominated the early proceedings, with Châu Đoàn Phát opening their account in the fifth minute and Nguyễn Thịnh Phát doubling their tally seconds later.

Nhan Gia Hưng scored in the 10th minute before goals from Nguyễn Đa Hải and captain Phạm Đức Hòa in the closing stages gave Việt Nam a comfortable cushion going into the break.

Hong Kong reduced the deficit a minute after the restart, with Tsang Tsz Hin converting following a counter-attacking move, only for Việt Nam's Từ Minh Quang to restore their five-goal advantage seconds later.

 

The Southeast Asian side furthered their advantage through a double from Quang in the 33rd and 40th minutes and Nguyễn Mạnh Dũng in the 33rd minute to seal the win for Diego Giustozzi’s side.

Meanwhile, Lebanon edged China 2-1 in a thrilling encounter. 

Mustafa Rhyem and Mohamad Ossman scored for Lebanon in different halves of the match, while Yakepujiang Maimaiti pulled one back for the host later. But despite the Chinese side's best efforts in the remaining minutes, Lebanon held on for the win.

Việt Nam topped the group after their big win, but Giustozzi said China would not be an easy rival in the next match.

He said in the tournament's press conference that Việt Nam are in a challenging group. There is a gap between teams but it wouldn't be easy for anyone, the coach noted.

"We have prepared all the best for my team and believe in our players, and as long as they are confident in themselves, we will have nothing to worry about," the Argentinian said.

Under Giustozzi, Việt Nam beat China 1-0 in last year's qualifier, and expect to repeat their win this year at the Linping Sport Centre Gymnasium in Hangzhou.

The cast of 31 is among the largest since a qualification phase was introduced in the tournament's 2006 edition. At the 18th finals, 15 spots are up for grabs, which will be filled by the eight group winners and seven best-ranked runners-up.

They will be joined by Indonesia, who have automatically qualified as hosts and will stage the tournament for the second time after first doing so in 2002. 

Việt Nam aim to remain in top spot in Group E for their eighth finals appearance. VNS