AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup - Masahiko optimistic despite Vietnam's exit

Pathum Thani: Vietnam have much to look forward to despite making their exit from the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ on Saturday.

The Southeast Asian side lost 4-0 in the quarter-finals to six-time champions Japan after a valiant display, and head coach Okiyama Masahiko said his squad had achieved their objective.

“Qualifying for the knockout stage was one of our targets and I'm happy we advanced this far,” he said. “Vietnam women's football is developing, we will work harder and go further in the future.”

Vietnam progressed to their first quarter-final since 2004, and the Japanese tactician was pleased with the way his side had conducted themselves.

“Today’s performance was very good,” said Masahiko. “The players really understood my tactics and game plan and did well.”

Vietnam held their own in the opening minutes, only for Japan to turn on the power and go three-up before the break.

“The players put in lots of effort but lost concentration after the first goal (in the 18th minute) and couldn't recover immediately, so we conceded twice in the last minutes of the first half.”

The 58-year-old, however, said his side had some way to go to compete with Asia’s best.

“They were united and strong not only in defence but in counterattack, but there were still some mistakes and that is regrettable but overall, I'm satisfied.”

Masahiko was also impressed with Japan’s play, calling them tournament frontrunners.

“This team is very technical and they organise their attacks in many ways,” he said. “They have the potential to be champions.”

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