Cong Phuong's double gifts Vietnam second win at SEA Games

Favourite striker Nguyen Cong Phuong scored twice as Vietnam brilliantly defeated Cambodia with a resounding score of 4-1 in their second Group B matchup at the ongoing 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Malaysia on August 17.

Vietnamese players celebrate Cong Phuong's opening goal. Photo: Vnexpress

Inspired by the opening victory against Timor Leste two days ago, Vietnamese players entered the match with high confidence, and needed only a few minutes to take control of the game against Cambodia, who were considered underdogs when being compared to Vietnam.

Cong Phuong was the brightest Vietnamese performer during the entire 90 minutes, as he possessed the most opportunities and had the most shots on target as well.

After 11 minutes, the Hoang Anh Gia Lai striker produced an exceptional personal showing, dodging past four Cambodian defenders before driving a close-range finish, pressuring goalkeeper Um Rath to work hard for a block.

Eight minutes later, Phuong produced another threat to the Cambodian side, with his strike hitting the woodwork in a show-off with Um Rath.

In the remainder of the first half, opportunities were continuously created by the red-colour team, but Duc Chinh, Quang Hai, Xuan Truong and Van Toan could not convert any of these into a goal for Vietnam.

It was not until seconds before the break that Cong Phuong opened the scoring after quick foot work from Van Toan.

The crucial advantage helped to relieve the pressure from Vietnamese players in the second half, encouraging them to enjoy another overwhelming 45 minutes of play.

Quang Hai doubled Vietnam’s lead with an amazing free kick at the 70 minute mark before Cong Phuong curled another freekick towards the top far corner for the team’s third goal in the next five minutes.

Just one minute later, the score was made 4-0 for Vietnam thanks to an accurate strike by substitute Tuan Tai.

The remainder of the match was only enough for Cambodia to earn a consolation goal, with Sothearoth beating Vietnamese goalie Minh Long on the penalty spot to score a goal for Cambodia.

Next up for Vietnam will be the third group clash against the Philippines on August 20.

(Source: NDO)