U19 Ha Noi T&T celebrate with their 2015 cup. The champions will defend their title at the 2016 event. — Photo vnexpress.net

HA NOI (VNS) — The National U19 Football Championship 2016 will be organised from January 11.

Twenty-two teams will be divided into three groups, competing in a round-robin two-leg qualification stage in three cities.

The top three teams, besides the three teams that share second place and two teams in third place will advance to the final round.

Most of the national football centres such as defending champions Ha Noi T&T, Viettel, PVF and Song Lam Nghe An have registered to participate in the tournament.

The venue for the finals, scheduled between March 18 and 27, has not been confirmed.

The winners will receive a VND50-million (US$2,200) bonus.

The organisers will also present awards to the best individual players. — VNS