Home Sports Midfielder’s Magic: Vietnam’s Triumph Over Indonesia in the ASEAN Championship

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Midfielder’s Magic: Vietnam’s Triumph Over Indonesia in the ASEAN Championship

Vietnam secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Indonesia in their second group stage match of the 2024 ASEAN Championship on Sunday evening. The game, hosted in the northern province of Phu Tho, saw Vietnam rise to the top of Group B with a perfect six points from two games.

Administrator

30 December, 2024

Vietnam’s midfielder star, Nguyen Quang Hai, delivered a moment of genius to secure a hard-fought victory against a resilient Indonesia side.

The Indonesian coach, Shin Tae Yong, implemented a defensive strategy, opting for a five-man defense and leaving their star attackers on the bench. This cautious approach limited Vietnam’s offensive opportunities, despite their dominance in possession and number of attempts.

Vietnamese and Indonesian players battle for possession in a tightly contested match. Viet Tri Stadium played host to an exciting Group B fixture. Photo: Nguyen Khoi / Tuoi Tre

Vietnam struggled to convert their possession into clear-cut chances, with many of their efforts coming from difficult angles. The first half saw the home team’s attacks repeatedly thwarted by Indonesia’s sturdy defense, forcing them to rely on crosses.

An aerial duel between Vietnamese and Indonesian players. The visitors’ tall and organized defense posed a challenge for Vietnam. Photo: Nguyen Khoi / Tuoi Tre

Indonesia shifted tactics in the second half, introducing quicker players to launch counterattacks. This change almost paid off as Vietnam’s defense was tested, with goalkeeper Filip Nguyen making a crucial save to deny striker Victor Dethan in the 65th minute.

With the game hanging in the balance, it was Nguyen Quang Hai who stepped up to be the hero. After a long-range effort hit the crossbar, the midfielder kept his composure in the ensuing chaos to slot home the winner in the 77th minute.

Nguyen Quang Hai celebrates his match-winning goal, sending the home crowd into raptures. His moment of brilliance proved decisive. Photo: Nguyen Khoi / Tuoi Tre

Vietnam held on for the remaining minutes, securing a valuable 1-0 victory and continuing their winning streak in the tournament. With six points from two games, they sit comfortably in Group B.

Their opening game against Laos on December 9 ended in a comprehensive 4-1 victory for Vietnam, setting the tone for their campaign.

The 2024 ASEAN Championship, which kicked off on December 8 and will conclude on January 5, 2025, sees Vietnam aiming for a spot in the finale.

Placed in Group B, Vietnam will face the Philippines on December 18 and Myanmar on December 21 in their remaining group fixtures.

A tense moment in the match as Vietnamese and Indonesian players challenge for the ball. The Group B encounter lived up to its expectations. Photo: Nguyen Khoi / Tuoi Tre

Group A comprises Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals.

The tournament format includes a two-legged knockout stage for the semifinals and final, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

Vietnam are determined to go all the way and claim the championship title.