—Viet Nam defeated Chinese Taipei 6-1 in the first match of the Asian Football Confederation Under-19 Championship's qualifying round yesterday in Malaysia.— Photo 24h

HA NOI (VNS)—Viet Nam defeated Chinese Taipei 6-1 in the first match of the Asian Football Confederation Under-19 Championship's qualifying round yesterday in Malaysia.

Striker Nguyen Cong Phuong scored a hattrick, Nguyen Van Toan netted twice and Lam Ti Phong grabbed one goal in the rout.

Taipei scored a consolation in the 89th minute courtesy of Wang Li An.

In the day's earlier game, Australia beat Hong Kong 7-0 to tmove top of the group. Viet Nam currently sit second.

Before coming to Kuala Lumpur, Viet Nam set a target of taking the top spot with a view to qualifying for the final round in Myanmar next year.

Coach Graechen Guillaume said he did not have much information about his rivals but he expected Australia to pose the biggest challenge.

Viet Nam will meet Hong Kong today while Australia play Taipei. — VNS