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Traditional net fishing keeps Hải Ninh’s coastal heritage alive
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Asian Games/Football
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| A general view of Aichi International Arena, one of the major venues of the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026, in Nagoya, Japan. —XINHUA/VNA Photo |
HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam's men's team will play Uzbekistan, the Philippines and Kuwait in Group C of the 20th Asian Games (ASIAD) after the draw took place on July 23 in Nagoya, Japan.
The men's competition features 15 teams following Iraq's withdrawal, with the top two from each group advancing to the quarter-finals.
Group A pairs Japan with Thailand, Kyrgyzstan and Hong Kong-China. Top seeded China faces Iran, the United Arab Emirates and North Korea in Group B. Group D consists of South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The draw has put Việt Nam in a group described by pundits as 'breathable' and have opportunity to advance to the last eight round.
Among three rivals, Uzbekistan are said a heavy favourites for the top position as the squad have maintained their leading in the Asian youth tournaments for years.
Kuwait are known for their strong physical foundation and powerful style of play, while the Philippines are making significant progress as their squad features many players that developed from advanced footballing nations.
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| The group games for the 20th Asian Games (ASIAD). |
Meanwhile the women's team face a tough test in the group stages which features 12 teams.
The tournament features 12 teams in three groups of four.
Việt Nam will face defending champions Japan, Chinese Taipei and arch-rivals Thailand in Group E
China play the Philippines, Uzbekistan and Hong Kong-China in Group G while Group F features South Korea, North Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Two top teams of each group and two best third-placed sides will qualify for the quarter-finals.
Japan are favourites to top Group E leaving Việt Nam to fight for second place against two rivals with plenty of experience in international tournaments.
ASIAD will be held in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4.
Football group games will begin prior to the opening ceremony. — VNS
