Chonburi, 11 December 2025 – Under immense pressure after a heartbreaking loss to the Philippines, Vietnam delivered a composed and commanding performance to beat Myanmar 2–0, secure top spot in Group B, and avoid hosts Thailand in the semi-finals.
Vietnam stepped onto the pitch at Chonburi knowing there was no margin for error. The stoppage-time defeat to the Philippines had pushed the defending champions into a must-win situation, while thousands of Myanmar supporters filled the stands and turned the atmosphere into something resembling a home game for their team. Myanmar were also a dangerous opponent, having stunned title contenders Philippines 2–1 in their opening match. But pressure often reveals character, and Vietnam responded with authority when it mattered most.
Despite the tense stakes, Coach Mai Duc Chung’s players entered the match with confidence. Historically dominant against Myanmar with 20 wins in 27 previous meetings, Vietnam once again demonstrated their superiority by striking twice in the opening 15 minutes to completely change the complexion of the game.
Just as she did five years ago in the decisive Olympic 2020 qualifier, Ngan Thi Van Su opened the scoring—again with a header. The 1.52-metre winger timed her run perfectly, meeting Tran Thi Duyen’s cross in the eighth minute and bouncing the ball into the far corner beyond the helpless Myanmar goalkeeper. It was a symbolic repeat of history, and an emotional release for Vietnam after days of pressure.
The early goal forced Myanmar, who only needed a draw to advance, into uncomfortable territory. Their backline crumbled under Vietnam’s aggressive pressing, and in the 15th minute, defender Mon Myint’s slow reaction allowed Hoang Thi Loan to pounce. After the loose ball struck the crossbar, Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy reacted quickest and headed into the unguarded net to double the lead.
The blistering start was more than Coach Chung could have hoped for. Each celebration from the 74-year-old carried visible relief, as Vietnam—winners of the last four SEA Games—had been on the brink of elimination. With a two-goal cushion, the team grew more fluid and confident. Captain Pham Hai Yen and full-back Tran Thi Duyen both came close to extending the lead before halftime, while Myanmar struggled to produce any meaningful threat.
Entering the second half, Myanmar faced an even greater burden. With the Philippines leading Malaysia in the parallel match, Myanmar needed at least two goals to survive. Yet their attack remained blunt, weighed down by fatigue and Vietnam’s disciplined defensive structure. Hoang Thi Loan, making her first start of the tournament, delivered an exceptional performance, shutting down nearly every Myanmar attack on her flank and establishing herself as one of Vietnam’s standout players of the match.
As time ticked away, Coach Chung adjusted the strategy, dropping the defensive line deeper and leaving only Huynh Nhu and young talent Ngoc Minh Chuyen up front. Their movement and pressure kept Myanmar’s defence unsettled, and Vietnam actually created more late chances despite no longer needing another goal.
When the final whistle sounded, Vietnam’s 2–0 victory not only sealed their place in the semi-finals but also lifted them to the top of Group B. In the other match, the Philippines defeated Malaysia 6–0, yet still finished behind Vietnam on goal difference. The reward for topping the group is significant—avoiding host Thailand in the semi-finals. Instead, Vietnam will face Indonesia on 14 December, also in Chonburi.
After overcoming enormous mental and competitive pressure, the defending champions have regained momentum. The victory over Myanmar reaffirmed their resilience, their quality, and their hunger to chase a fifth straight SEA Games gold medal.
Thanh Tung
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