Vietnam's 2018 AFF Cup title-clinching scenarios

ABO/NDO – Vietnam are close to lifting the 2018 AFF Cup trophy after drawing 2-2 against Malaysia in the final first leg on December 11. There are three possible scenarios for the return fixture in Hanoi this weekend, which, if true, will help Park Hang-seo’s side to realise such a burning dream of Vietnamese football after ten years of waiting.

The Vietnamese squad, coached by Park Hang-seo, now have the upper hand to claim the 2018 AFF Cup trophy against Malaysia.

* Scenario #1

The “Golden Stars” will officially be crowned the 2018 AFF Cup champions if they win the Saturday match at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.

 

* Scenario #2

 

If the second leg concludes as a 0-0 or 1-1 draw, the Vietnamese side will take the overall trophy thanks to away goals rule, as Park’s side scored twice at Malaysia’s home ground in the first leg.

 

* Scenario #3

 

If Vietnam are held to a 2-2 draw by Malaysia, the two teams will head into extra time. Park’s troops will lift the trophy if they win in extra time. In the case a goalless score remains in extra time, Vietnam will have to win a penalty shootout to realise their dream.

 

If none of the three aforementioned scenarios happens, Park Hang-seo and his players will be forced to see Malaysia lift the 2018 AFF Cup trophy right at My Dinh Stadium. Nonetheless, with the advantage of scoring two goals away and the stable form of the players at present, the outlook of Vietnam downing Malaysia and claiming the overall title is now brighter than ever.