On the night of April 7 (Vietnam time), U17 Vietnam surprised everyone when they held U17 Japan to a 1-1 draw in the second match of Group B of the 2025 U17 Asian Cup finals. Tran Gia Bao scored the equalizer to seal the 1-1 draw for U17 Vietnam in the 90+5 minute.
Speaking after the match, coach Cristiano Roland said he appreciated the confidence and efforts of the whole team: "The players played very confidently against a strong opponent like Japan.
In the second half, we changed some tactical and personnel factors and that brought results. A point is a worthy result for what the team has shown".
The Brazilian strategist praised the whole team, especially the discipline and ability to adhere to tactics: "We have talked a lot about the spirit of not giving up of U17 Vietnam, so I do not mention it anymore. In terms of expertise, I see that no player is without understanding the tactical intentions.
Everyone played according to the preparation of the coaching staff, very disciplined and tried very hard. The first goal conceded from a set piece was unfortunate, but after that, the whole team kept the game and took advantage of the opponent's weakness to score."
When asked about player Tran Gia Bao - the equalizer, coach Cristiano Roland shared: "All the players believe in me, in tactics and preparation. Whether it's just 5, 10 minutes or a few seconds, they're ready. That is also the way we prepare for each match".
With 1 more point won, the U17 Vietnam team is uncertain to advance. However, coach Cristiano Roland is still optimistic: I cant predict anything, I just know that the whole team will continue to try their best. After 2 matches, we have good results against 2 strong opponents. Every match is very difficult, like a final.
Regarding the final match of the group stage against U17 UAE, coach Cristiano Roland said the team will focus on the maximum: "We need to help the players recover physically, and carefully study the opponent to prepare well for the upcoming match."
