One of the Cambodia attacks. Photo: Minh Quang

Nhan Dan Online - Vietnam easily demolished Cambodia 6-1 in the third game, topping Group A while Malaysia came back from behind to beat Thailand 2-1, creating the greatest upset so far at the 25th SEA Games in Vientiane.

Right from the start, Vietnam dominated the game creating several chances to score. Skipper Thanh Luong gave Vietnam the lead when  he danced past one Cambodian defender and scored the opener in the 10th minutes. In the 17th minute, Thanh Binh had one on one’s against Cambodia’s goalkeeper but failed to convert the chance into goal. In the 42nd minute Thanh Hung doubled the score with his header from Thanh Luong’s corner kick.

Cambodia produced some counter attacks but their shots could not hit the target.

After the restart, Vietnam continued to attack. In the 62th minute, Thanh Luong stroke the third goal for Vietnam. Substitute Dinh Tung fired the fourth with his header in the 64th minute.

Four minutes later, Borey narrowed the score with his fine shot from close range. Then it was Vietnam turn to attack. Dinh Tung stroke the fifth goal before Manh  Dung fired the sixth for Vietnam.

Trouncing Cambodia 6-1, Vietnam topped Group A and will take on Singapore, ranked second in Group B in the first semi-final on December 14.

Malaysia 2-1 Thailand : Greatest upset

Meanwhile, Malaysia came back from behind to beat powerhouse Thailand 2-1 to claim the second ticket in the semis.

Vietnamese fans support home team.
Photo: Minh Quang

The first half of the match between Thailand and Malaysia ended in a 0-0. draw.

After the restart, Thailand took the lead when Arthit fired the opener in the 52nd minute. After the goal, Malaysia tried to come back from behind with hight competing spirit and their efforts paid off. In the 82th minute, Asriq levelled the score for Malaysia. Encouraged by the goal Malaysia went in front when Fakri scored the winner in the 90th minute.

In this decisive match, Malaysia needed only 9 minutes to create the  greatest upset so far at the 25th Sea Games, beating Thailand 2-1 to reach the semis.

Malaysia will meet Laos who topped Group B in the second semi-final on December 14.

By Huy Nam