Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

By Staff reporters   January 20, 2026 | 06:43 pm PT
National jubilation turned to heartbreak on Tuesday night as Vietnam suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat against China in the semifinals of the 2026 U23 Asian Cup.
Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

Over 500 m of Nguyen Hue walking street in Ho Chi Minh City were dyed red by thousands of people who were presented to support their home team via LED screens.

The city installed six large LED screens on the walking street to serve fans during the semifinal match, as well as the third-place playoff on Friday and the final on Saturday.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

A fan jumps for joy after Vietnam attacked in the 3rd minute of the match, as captain Khuat Van Khang dribbled into China's penalty area.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

A sea of ​​people gather in front of the LED screens.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

Many were worried when key defender Hieu Minh suffered a right knee injury in the 30th minute after a strong collision with Xiang Yuwang and could not continue.

This can be considered a turning point for the game.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

Fans in Ho Chi Minh City were devastated when Kim Sang-sik's team conceded two goals at the beginning of the second half.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

Two foreigners watching the match on Nguyen Hue walking street were saddened when Vietnam fell behind.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

Some people at Nguyen Hue walking street left early after that.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

But many people carrying national flags and homemade gold trophies continued to cheer on.

Nationwide fans heartbroken as Vietnam lost to China in U23 Asian Cup semis

In Hanoi, along Nguyen Trai Street, many screens were set up in cafes and pubs, while people spilled onto the streets.

 
 
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