Midfielder Doan Ngoc Tan’s injury-time goal salvaged a crucial 1-1 draw for Vietnam against the Philippines, keeping their hopes alive to secure the top spot in Group B and potentially avoid facing Thailand in the semifinals. With seven points after three matches, Vietnam needs just a draw against Myanmar at Viet Tri Stadium in three days to guarantee first place in the group.
Facing the Philippines as the away team, coach Kim Sang Sik made significant changes, rotating eight players from the starting lineup that defeated Indonesia. Key players like Nguyen Filip, Nguyen Quang Hai, and Ngoc Tan retained their spots, while Nguyen Thanh Binh, Chau Ngoc Quang, Dinh Thanh Binh, and Bui Hoang Viet Anh made their ASEAN Cup debuts.
Despite a reshuffled lineup, Vietnam started brightly and created early chances. In the 4th minute, Vu Van Thanh set up Quang Hai for a shot that flew over the crossbar. Moments later, Van Thanh earned a penalty after colliding with Adrian Ulgevik, but VAR overturned the referee’s decision.
The match grew more challenging for Vietnam following the VAR reversal, as the Philippines improved their possession and pressing game. While Vietnam remained the only team with shots on target in the first half, their defense occasionally faltered. Sandro Reyes almost capitalized on a lapse in Vietnam’s midfield and backline, dribbling into the box before firing wide.
At halftime, coach Kim replaced Quang Hai with Nguyen Hoang Duc to inject fresh energy. Vietnam managed their best chance early in the second half when Van Thanh struck the crossbar from a loose ball after Dinh Thanh Binh’s miscue. However, the Philippines broke the deadlock in the 68th minute when substitute Javier Gayoso scored following a controversial aerial challenge involving Khuat Van Khang. VAR upheld the goal, leaving Nguyen Filip rooted to the spot.
With time ticking away, coach Kim ramped up Vietnam’s attack, fielding four forwards: Tien Linh, Van Toan, Vi Hao, and Tuan Hai. The team’s efforts yielded a lifeline in the seventh minute of added time. A corner kick led to a misjudged punch by the Philippines goalkeeper, and Ngoc Tan seized the opportunity to head the ball home from close range, securing a hard-fought draw.
This marked the fourth consecutive ASEAN Cup where Vietnam has drawn their third group-stage match. Although missing the chance to secure early qualification as group winners, the late equalizer ensures Vietnam remains in a commanding position heading into their final group match against Myanmar. For the Philippines, victory against Indonesia in their last game, coupled with a favorable result from Vietnam’s match against Myanmar, is their only path to the semifinals.
Leave a Reply