Thanh Binh (18) and his teammates celebrate
his opener. Photo: Vietnamnet

Nhan Dan Online- U-23 Vietnam crushed U-23 Malaysia 3-1 in an interesting game at Laos national stadium on December 6.

Vietnam and Malaysia started the game with great confidence to win this very crucial match for both sides. In the 8th minute Vietnam had a penalty when Malaysian midfielder Saarani played handball while blocking Thanh Binh’s free-kick shot. Thanh Binh stepped up to take it. He got goalkeeper Farizal leaning to his left and put it directly into the net, giving Vietnam the lead.

In a quick attack in 24^th minute, Thanh Binh sent a wonderful cross to Tien Thanh who scored the second goal for Vietnam.

Tien Thanh (white) scores the second
goal for Vietnam. Photo: Vietnamnet

One minute late, Malaysia closed the gap when defender Hoang Quang had his own goal while trying to block Malaysia’s high-ball.

After the goal, Malaysia intensified their attacks but could not breach Vietnam’s strong defence.

In a quick counter attack in the last minute of the first half, Trong Hoang fired the third goal from 20 metres.

After the break, Malaysia tried to fight back but could not create any real chance to score. Vietnam played solidly in their defence and their counter attacks seemed to be dangerous. In the 74th minute Dinh Tung had the ball in Malyasia’s net but it was not recognised by referee as one Malaysian defender was fouled by Thanh Luong before that.

In the last minutes, Malaysia intensified their attacks to score but their efforts were in vain. Vietnam deserved a victory.

A 3-1 win at Malaysia paved a way to the semi-finals for Vietnam.

They only need to draw Cambodia in the last group game on December 11.

The same day, Cambodia stunned Timor Leste 4-1. Fereira scored the first goal for Timor Leste at the tournament in the 88^th minute.

Duy Thinh