U23 Malaysia is ready to challenge the position of U23 Vietnam.

Coach Nafuzi Zain admits that U23 Malaysia will confront a significant challenge named U23 Vietnam, yet he remains ambitious about progressing deep into the 2025 SEA Games.

U23 Malaysia’s coach Nafuzi Zain shared candid thoughts after the group draw for the 2025 SEA Games was announced. U23 Malaysia was placed in Group B alongside U23 Vietnam – the reigning Southeast Asian U23 champions – and U23 Laos. This group is considered highly challenging for the young Malaysian players as Vietnam is currently performing impressively in the regional arena.

Speaking to Astro Arena, the 45-year-old coach acknowledged that his team will face a difficult journey if they want to secure a semifinal spot: "From my perspective, we are not in an easy group. This will truly be a tough and challenging path."

Nevertheless, Coach Nafuzi Zain remains optimistic, believing that U23 Malaysia can hold their own against U23 Vietnam. He commented: "Looking at what Vietnam has achieved – winning the U23 Southeast Asian Championship in Jakarta and qualifying for the U23 Asian Championship, I think we can still compete with them."

The Malaysian strategist also emphasized the similarity in playing styles between the two teams, seeing it as an opportunity to learn and demonstrate resilience: "In terms of playing style, the difference is not very big. With the players we have, I believe it won’t be easy for Vietnam to dominate the game. The important thing is to avoid repeating mistakes when facing strong teams like Vietnam, Indonesia, or Thailand."

According to the competition format of the 2025 SEA Games, the three group winners and the best runner-up will qualify for the semifinals. After a disappointing performance in the 2023 SEA Games, U23 Malaysia aims to seek revenge and prove progress under Nafuzi Zain’s leadership.

Facing the consistent form and growing strength of U23 Vietnam, Coach Nafuzi Zain’s comments show Malaysia’s respect for the red-shirted squad. However, with determination and a desire to assert regional status, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s team certainly does not want to give their opponents a chance to cause an upset. Will U23 Vietnam continue to confirm their absolute dominance at the 2025 SEA Games, or will Malaysia emerge as a formidable challenger?