Coaches and players of the national women's U20 team discus before their training. The team will compete in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 next month in Thailand. — VNA/VNS Photos

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam’s young women are stepping onto the continental stage with confidence as they chase an appearance at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 2026 for the first time.

The squad will compete in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026, the crucial World Cup qualifying tournament, from April 1-18 in Thailand. Drawn in Group A, they will face stiff competition from China, Bangladesh and the host nation.

Only the top four teams will earn a coveted spot at the World Cup as Asia’s representatives, making every match a high-stakes test.

Coach Okiyama Masahiko called the team into training in late February in Hà Nội, stressing that careful preparation and focused discipline would be key as the players aim to secure a place on the world stage.

"There's about a month left until the tournament. Following our schedule, players will practise at home first to improve their physical fitness and form. Then we will have a training camp in China from March 6-14 to sharpen skills," said the Japanese tactician.

"Previously, I watched the national U19 championship and found several promising players. They showed good technique and skills. I hope that they will prove their abilities in this training camp and earn a place in the final list," said Masahiko.

He added that in addition to fitness and technique, which are crucial when facing Asia's strongest rivals, he would also address the team’s errors identified since the qualifiers. Tactics would be adjusted to ensure Việt Nam are in the best possible condition in Thailand.

"Our ultimate goal is to qualify for the World Cup. Among our upcoming opponents, some we have faced in the past and some are new to us. I think there are plenty of opportunities and if we prepare well, then the chances are definitely available," Masahiko said.

Vietnamese players in a training session for the Asian competition.

After nearly two weeks of preparation, defender Nguyễn Ngô Thảo Nguyên said she had a clear understanding of the task ahead and was determined to see it through.

"Teams in the Finals all possess high skill levels and superior physiques. Having a modest stature, Việt Nam prioritise strengthening their defence, particularly our ability to resist aerial balls," Nguyên said.

"In the continental competition, we will focus on defence, which requires us to maintain team formation and maximum concentration in set-piece situations."

Following their plan, the team will move to HCM City after their training camp in China, where the weather closely resembles conditions in Thailand, for further preparation.

There, they are scheduled to play two friendly matches against Uzbekistan on March 24 and 27 before departing for Thailand.

The FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 2026 will bring together 24 teams in Poland from September 5 to 27. North Korea are the current holders, having lifted the trophy for a third time at Colombia 2024. — VNS