NHA TRANG, Vietnam – The Water Resources University etched its name into Vietnamese collegiate football history on Friday, March 22, 2026, with a dominant 4-0 victory over the Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry in the final of the 4th Vietnam Youth and Student Football Tournament – 2026 THACO Cup. The win marks the first time the Water Resources University has claimed the coveted THACO Cup, solidifying their position as the nation’s top university football program.
The final, sponsored by THACO, took place at the Nha Trang University Stadium in Khanh Hoa Province. The Water Resources University entered the match as favorites, having topped their qualifying group and boasting an impressive run of form throughout the tournament. Their performance in the final did not disappoint, delivering a comprehensive display of attacking football and resolute defending.
This victory wasn’t just about the scoreline; it was about statistical dominance. Throughout the tournament, the Water Resources University proved to be a formidable force, leading all teams with 10 goals scored, three wins, and remarkably, a clean sheet – conceding no goals in their run to the championship. This defensive solidity, combined with a potent attack, proved too much for their opponents to handle.
According to reports, the team’s success is built on a foundation of unwavering spirit and a willingness to take risks. They play with a high defensive line, aggressively pressing opponents, and demonstrating a confidence born from both triumph and past challenges. This approach, coupled with fluid passing combinations, allowed them to consistently break down opposing defenses.
The Water Resources University had previously reached the final twice before, but fell short on both occasions. Coach Vu Van Trung acknowledged the team’s past near misses, stating before the final that the players understood what it took to succeed at this level – both in terms of skill and mental preparation. That experience clearly translated to the pitch on Friday.
The match itself saw the Water Resources University take control from the outset, preventing the Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry, known for their strong defense, from establishing any foothold in the game. A first-half goal gave them the lead, and they continued to dominate possession and create chances. Whereas the second half saw a more determined effort from their opponents, the Water Resources University remained resolute, adding three more goals to seal a convincing victory.
“Through two final appearances (Seasons 1 and 2), the players of the Water Resources University know how to play, how to prepare mentally, and how to control the game to their advantage… And perhaps that helped the players of the Water Resources University achieve a convincing victory in the final of the 4th Vietnam Youth and Student Football Tournament – 2026, sponsored by THACO,” Coach Vu Van Trung said prior to the match.
This championship is not a fleeting success, but rather the culmination of a decade of dedicated effort in building a strong football program within the university. The Water Resources University has consistently participated in numerous school football tournaments, fostering a culture of competition and excellence.
The Water Resources University’s triumph earns them not only the championship trophy and a prize of 300 million VND (approximately $12,000 USD based on current exchange rates), but also a coveted spot in the International Youth and Student Football Championship. The Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry finished as runners-up, receiving a prize of 150 million VND (approximately $6,000 USD). The Dong Nai University of Technology and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology shared third place, each receiving 70 million VND (approximately $2,800 USD).
Individual accolades were also awarded, with Nguyen Hoang Danh of the Water Resources University named the tournament’s best player, receiving a prize of 15 million VND. Duong Phu Manh (Water Resources University) was recognized as the best goalkeeper, earning 10 million VND, and Tran Duc Hoan (Water Resources University), with four goals, claimed the title of top scorer, also receiving 10 million VND. The Nha Trang University received the award for best fan support, earning 10 million VND.
Immediately following the tournament, the Water Resources University team, along with host Nha Trang University, will prepare to compete in the International Youth and Student Football Championship, scheduled to take place from March 28th to April 5th. They will face teams from Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore in the international competition.
The Water Resources University’s victory is a testament to their dedication, skill, and unwavering team spirit. Their success will undoubtedly inspire future generations of student-athletes at the university and across Vietnam. Fans can follow updates on the International Youth and Student Football Championship through official tournament channels.
