Vietnam Loses to Iran in Asian Games Football Match

In a crushing 0-4 defeat, Vietnam's men's football team has put their shot at progressing in the 19th Asian Games in China in peril. Thursday's loss to Iran has severely hurt their chances of making it to the next round.

Administrator

2 October, 2023

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The plan to prevent first-half goals and transition to offense in the second half quickly fell apart when Iran scored in the fifth minute through Arsalan Motahari’s header.

Afterwards, Vietnam’s defense remained under constant pressure from Iran’s attacks.

It wasn’t until the 26th minute that Vietnam managed to register their first shot on target, thanks to Bui Vi Hao.

However, Hao’s attempt was swiftly denied by Iranian goalkeeper Hossein Hosseini.

The first half concluded with Iran leading 1-0, showcasing their dominance in all aspects of the game.

In the second half, Iran maintained control and added another goal by Saman Touranian, making it 2-0 in the 47th minute.

Vietnamese (red jersey) and Iranian players in action at the 19th Asian Games in China, September 21, 2023. Photo: H.D. / Tuoi Tre

Five minutes later, Iran extended their lead to 3-0 after Mehdi Mamizadeh dribbled the ball and fired a shot from outside the penalty area, beating Vietnamese goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan.

With a three-goal deficit, the Vietnamese players made efforts to seek an equalizer, but struggled with inaccurate passes.

As time ran against them, Vietnam conceded another goal in the second injury minute from a close-range header by Aria Barzegar.

Iran has advanced to the next round, while Vietnam must secure at least a draw against Saudi Arabia in their last group stage game on Sunday to keep their hope of qualifying alive.

The 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China features a total of 40 sports and 481 events.

Vietnam sent a delegation of 504 participants and coaches, including 320 athletes, to the tournament.