The game, played in Viet Tri Stadium, saw host Vietnam dominate possession early, creating several chances but failing to convert.

Khuat Van Khang, Nguyen Quoc Viet, and Hieu Minh all had opportunities in the first half, while goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien produced a crucial save from a close-range header by Yemen’s Omar Mahross just before the break.

Coach Kim Sang-sik made bold changes in the 40th minute, substituting three attackers at once. The shift paid off after halftime.

In the 70th minute, Vietnam finally broke the deadlock. Taking advantage of a defensive error, Nguyen Thanh Nhan latched onto the ball inside the box and calmly slotted it into the left corner, sending the Vietnamese fans into celebration.

The goal boosted Vietnam’s confidence, while Yemen, desperate for at least a draw to keep their qualifying hopes alive, pushed forward but failed to create meaningful chances. Tensions rose in the final minutes, with fouls and heated exchanges, but Vietnam held firm.

After five minutes of added time, the final whistle confirmed Vietnam’s place at the 2026 U23 Asian Cup in January next year.