Group C Squads: South Korea, UAE, Vietnam, and Yemen Rosters
The stage is set for Group C as four nations have finalized their rosters for the upcoming competition. These squads represent a blend of emerging youth talent and strategic coaching, with each team bringing a distinct tactical approach to the pitch. From the disciplined structures of South Korea to the rising prospects in Yemen, the rosters reveal the depth and ambition of each national program.
Key Facts
- South Korea was the first to announce its squad on 24 April 2026, led by head coach Kim Hyun-jun.
- United Arab Emirates and Vietnam both finalized their rosters on 1 May 2026.
- Yemen completed its squad selection last, announcing the list on 6 May 2026.
- The rosters feature a significant number of players born in 2009, with some as young as 14 years old in the Yemen squad.
- Vietnam's team is captained by defender Nguyễn Huỳnh Đăng Khoa.
South Korea: Disciplined and Ready
Under the guidance of head coach Kim Hyun-jun, South Korea has assembled a squad characterized by strong club representation from the Pohang Steelers and Seoul. The team maintains a balanced distribution across all positions, with a heavy emphasis on midfield control.
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Squad Composition
- Goalkeepers: Led by Jang Jun-yeong (Pohang Steelers).
- Defenders: A robust line featuring Park Ji-hu and Seong Min-su.
- Midfielders: A deep rotation including Jung Ha-won and Kim Ji-ho.
- Forwards: Spearheaded by Nam I-an and Kim Ji-woo.
United Arab Emirates: International Influence
Head coach Majed Al-Zaabi has selected a squad that reflects a global outlook, featuring players from European academies such as Ipswich Town, FC Augsburg, Celta Vigo, and Manchester City. This integration of international experience is designed to elevate the team's tactical versatility.
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Squad Composition
- Goalkeepers: Joshua Bentley (Ipswich Town) leads the group.
- Defenders: Includes Johannes Waimer from FC Augsburg.
- Midfielders: A creative unit featuring Saud Yqoob and Gabriel El-Khoury.
- Forwards: A potent attack including Hamza Swed (Manchester City) and Mahmoud Badr (Celta Vigo).
Vietnam: The Rising Force
Led by head coach Cristiano Roland, Vietnam's squad shows a strong reliance on the PVF and Hà Nội academies. The team is anchored by captain Nguyễn Huỳnh Đăng Khoa, providing leadership to a young and energetic group.
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Squad Composition
- Goalkeepers: Chu Bá Huấn (Hà Nội) takes the primary role.
- Defenders: A disciplined backline featuring the captain and Trần Hoàng Việt.
- Midfielders: A dynamic core including Đào Quý Vương and Nguyễn Minh Thủy.
- Forwards: A versatile attacking line with Lê Trọng Đại Nhân and Trần Trí Dũng.
Yemen: Youthful Ambition
Head coach Haitham Thabit has opted for an exceptionally young squad, featuring several players born in 2010 and 2011. This bold approach emphasizes long-term development and raw energy, with many players hailing from Al-Wehda Sanaa and Al-Ahli Aden.
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Squad Composition
- Goalkeepers: Wessam Al-Asbahi (Al-Ahli Sanaa) anchors the defense.
- Defenders: A young unit including Ebrahim Anwar, one of the youngest in the group.
- Midfielders: A hardworking group featuring Ayman Al-Obadi.
- Forwards: An aggressive front line led by Anmar Al-Abd and Fahim Zuhair.
Group C Summary Table
| Nation | Head Coach | Announcement Date | Key Club Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Korea | Kim Hyun-jun | 24 April 2026 | Pohang Steelers, Seoul |
| United Arab Emirates | Majed Al-Zaabi | 1 May 2026 | Ipswich Town, Al-Jazira |
| Vietnam | Cristiano Roland | 1 May 2026 | PVF, Hà Nội |
| Yemen | Haitham Thabit | 6 May 2026 | Al-Wehda Sanaa, Al-Ahli Aden |
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Group C squads officially announced?
South Korea announced their squad on 24 April 2026, followed by the UAE and Vietnam on 1 May 2026, and finally Yemen on 6 May 2026.
Who is the captain of the Vietnam national team?
The Vietnam squad is captained by defender Nguyễn Huỳnh Đăng Khoa from PVF.
Which team has the most players from European clubs?
The United Arab Emirates squad features the most European-based players, with representatives from clubs like Manchester City, Celta Vigo, FC Augsburg, and Ipswich Town.
Who is the head coach of the South Korean team?
The South Korean team is led by head coach Kim Hyun-jun.
What is the age profile of the Yemen squad?
The Yemen squad is notably young, with several players born in 2010 and 2011, including some as young as 14 years old.