Australia coach speaks candidly ahead of semifinal match against Vietnam

Australia U17 head coach Carl Veart expresses great respect for Vietnam U17 ahead of the 2026 Southeast Asia U17 semifinal.

On the afternoon of April 21, a press conference was held ahead of the 2026 Southeast Asia U17 semifinal. Vietnam U17 and Australia U17 are considered an early final, as they are the two teams that have shown the most impressive form since the start of the tournament. Australia has won all three matches, while Vietnam U17 has won two and drawn one, scoring 14 goals and conceding none.

Speaking at the press conference, Australia U17 head coach Carl Veart expressed great respect for Vietnam U17. He assessed that the Vietnamese players possess good individual technique and quick transition ability, which Australia U17 needs to pay special attention to in their defensive organization.

“We controlled the game quite well in previous matches, but this match will be different. The players need to maintain high concentration throughout the 90 minutes and cannot afford to make mistakes,” Coach Carl Veart stated.

Regarding the team's journey in the tournament, Coach Carl Veart said that Australia U17 has faced various challenges and is well-prepared for long-term goals, including the AFC U17 Championship final round.

However, he affirmed that his team will need to further elevate their performance quality when facing Vietnam U17. “Vietnam is the strongest opponent we have encountered in this tournament. The upcoming semifinal will certainly be very exciting and of high professional quality,” Coach Carl Veart said.

Speaking at the press conference ahead of the 2026 Southeast Asia U17 Championship semifinal, head coach Cristiano Roland confirmed that the Vietnam U17 team has prepared thoroughly and is ready to face the major challenge against reigning champion Australia U17.

According to Coach Cristiano Roland's assessment, Australia U17 is a team with good professional quality, having recently undergone experience in international tournaments and possessing a squad that plays regularly. “We have studied carefully and understand the strengths of the Australian team. They are definitely a formidable opponent,” Coach Cristiano Roland said.

Brazilian coach reveals Vietnam U17's strength ahead of the major battle against Australia

Link to watch Vietnam U17 vs Australia U17 live, 7:30 PM today, April 22