AFF Women's Championship: Vietnam put one foot in semifinals

Vietnam moved a step closer to confirming their place in the 2015 AFF Women’s Championship semi-finals after crushing Malaysia with seven straight goals in their second Group B matchup at Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City on Monday.

Vietnam (in white) absolutely overwhelmed Malaysia in their second group matchup on Monday. (Credit: vnexpress.net)

Compared to the group opener against Myanmar on May 2, Vietnam’s Japanese coach Takashi Norimatsu made some changes in the starting lineup over the much lower-rated Malaysia, giving the younger players an opportunity to show off their abilities.

Vietnam promptly boasted their superiority with the opening goal scored by striker Huynh Nhu in a face-off with Malaysian goalkeeper Junaidi seconds from the first whistle.

It seemed to be a one-way match for Vietnam after the early lead, however, Malaysia’s stubborn defence prevented the host team from netting any further goals during the first 45 minutes.

Despite a modest scoring tally in the first half, the Vietnamese women played explosively after the interval, beating goalie Junaidi six more times.

Hong Nhung kicked off Vietnam’s fabulous second half with a successful 46th-minute strike, followed by two more goals from Nguyen Thi Nguyet on the hour mark and Huynh Nhu on the penalty spot a few minutes later.

With 15 minutes left to play, striker Tuyet Dung – the winner of the 2014 Golden Ball award – continued rubbing salt on Malaysia’s wounds as she found the back of the net three times, with two corner-kicks and a skillful drive in the box.

The resounding victory lifted Vietnam to top spot of Group B with six points, a three-point surplus against Myanmar and the Philippines. Just a draw in their last group match against the Philippines tomorrow will be enough to secure Vietnam a semifinal berth as Group B leaders.

(Source: nhandan.org.vn)