China's U23 football team secured a historic milestone on January 20, 2026, defeating Vietnam 3-0 in Jeddah to advance to their first-ever AFC U23 Asian Cup final. The semifinal victory marks a significant achievement for Chinese football, showcasing tactical discipline and clinical finishing against a determined Vietnamese side.
Key Moments: Chinese goalkeeper Li Hao maintained his tournament clean sheet record with crucial saves in the first half, including a spectacular stop against Khuat Van Khang's free-kick. The breakthrough came in the 52nd minute when Xiang Yuwang displayed remarkable poise to double China's lead after Peng Xiao's opener. Wang Yudong sealed the victory in injury time following Vietnam's reduction to 10 players.
The team now prepares to face defending champions Japan in Saturday's final, a match that could reshape perceptions of China's football development program. Analysts note this achievement comes as Chinese sports authorities implement new youth training initiatives launched earlier this year.
