Vietnam’s national football team secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Indonesia at Viet Tri Stadium on the evening of December 15, thanks to a moment of brilliance from star player Nguyen Quang Hai. This match, part of the third round of Group B in the 2024 AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup, saw Coach Kim Sang-sik make significant changes to Vietnam’s starting lineup, altering nearly half of the squad compared to their opener against Laos. Entering the match as heavy favorites, Vietnam dominated possession from the outset.
Tien Linh and his teammates pushed forward aggressively, confining much of the play to Indonesia’s half. Meanwhile, Coach Shin Tae-yong’s Indonesian team opted for a cautious approach, sitting deep with a low defensive block. Despite their dominance, Vietnam failed to capitalize on their opportunities during the first half, struggling to convert their possession and offensive pushes to scoring chances.
Vietnam created several notable chances by the 35th minute, but nothing materialized. The third minute saw Quang Hai deliver a high cross from the right-side corner, setting up Nguyen Van Vi for a powerful shot outside the box, but Indonesia’s defense blocked it effectively. Just moments before the halftime whistle, Tien Linh's header forced a difficult save from Indonesia’s goalkeeper, Cahya Supriadi, but the deadlock remained at 0-0 as both teams headed for the locker rooms.
Coach Shin made some tactical changes at the start of the second half, bringing on Victor Dethan and Pratama Arhan. Indonesia began to grow more confident, creating attacking opportunities, most vividly illustrated when Benjamin Dethan found space inside Vietnam's box. He unleashed a shot, but Vietnamese goalkeeper Nguyen Filip made a pivotal save to keep the match scoreless.
Finally, the pivotal moment arrived in the 77th minute. Nguyen Quang Hai, who had been pivotal throughout the match, took control of the ball outside the penalty box and unleashed a powerful strike. His first effort rattled the crossbar, but he swiftly followed up to slam the ball home after Tien Linh controlled the rebound with his chest. This expertly executed goal sent the home crowd at Viet Tri Stadium erupting with joy and put Vietnam on the scoreboard.
After taking the lead, Vietnam played with renewed energy and confidence, pushing for more goals. They continued to create several chances, with Quang Hai heavily involved. Despite their aggressive play, the score remained 1-0 as the referee blew the full-time whistle, sealing the victory for Vietnam.
This victory was not just significant for the three points it brought; it propelled Vietnam to the top of Group B, giving them six points from two matches and pushing Indonesia down to second place with four points from three matches. The standings were competitive, with the Philippines trailing closely behind. For Indonesia, this match marked a setback after their initial win against Myanmar and their earlier draw against Laos.
With this match complete, Vietnam will face the Philippines on December 18, and Indonesia will host the same team three days later. The stakes are exceedingly high, and the results of these upcoming matches will significantly impact Group B dynamics.
Vietnam's performances throughout the AFF Cup have been commendable, achieving two wins against one loss, setting the stage for what could be an exciting continuation of the tournament. The match against Indonesia was particularly pivotal, reinforcing their status as title contenders.
For Indonesia, the loss highlights areas needing improvement as they prepare for their next match. Coach Shin Tae-yong will undoubtedly analyze the game to address their offensive shortcomings seen against Vietnam, as they seek to secure progression to the knockout stage of the tournament.
Vietnam's impressive victory, characterized by strategic play and opportunistic goal-scoring, showcases their capability as they push forward in the AFF Cup. Fans can expect their next match to be another thrilling display of Southeast Asian football.
