Viet Nam News
HA NOI — Viet Nam defeated Malaysia 1-0 thanks to Nguyen Trong Hoang’s goal in the 80th minute in the second match of Group B at the ASEAN Football Federation Suzuki Cup at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday.
With the win, Viet Nam are on top of the group and qualify for the semi-finals, while the defeat put Malaysia’s semi-final hopes in jeopardy as they must now beat Myanmar in their final game on Saturday.
“This was a very difficult match. Malaysia defended very well. But we had chances and scored a goal. The luck belonged to us,” said Vietnamese coach Nguyen Huu Thang after the match.
“This win is very meaningful. We released the pressure of entering the semi-finals. I am glad because my players carried out my tactics. The whole team overcame difficulties to gain victory. I am very satisfied with my players,” said Thang.
The heat in Yangon yesterday made it difficult for either team to excel.
Viet Nam attacked from the early stages but the Malaysian defence continually frustrated the side of the Vietnamese attackers.
Viet Nam’s first attempt match came in the 41st minute. Hoang had a sight of Khairul Fahmi’s goal but the Malaysian midfielders blocked the effort.
Ahmad Hazwan had Malaysia’s first shot on target in the 44th minute but his shot was easily saved by Vietnamese goalkeeper Tran Nguyen Manh.
After the break, Viet Nam had several chances to open the scoring but they failed. In the 65th minute, Nguyen Cong Phuong replaced striker Nguyen Van Quyet.
In the 74th minute, after a quick counter-attack, Hoang nearly scored but his shot flew over the bar. Six minutes later, he danced between two Malaysian defenders to slot home the opener.
Phuong had a chance to double the advantage but couldn’t beat Fahmi. In the remaining time Viet Nam defended well and secured a precious 1-0 victory.
Viet Nam will move to Nay Pyi Taw for the Saturday’s last group match against Cambodia who lost 1-3 to co-hosts Myanmar in a later match yesterday.
In Group A’s Tuesday ties, Thailand secured a place in the last four after beating Singapore 1-0 and the Philippines tied Indonesia 2-2 in Manila.— VNS