Bangkok, 15 December 2025 – Second half substitutes Van Thuan and Thanh Nhan made the decisive impact, scoring late goals to help U22 Vietnam defeat U22 Philippines 2-0 and secure a place in the men’s football final at SEA Games 33.
U22 Vietnam started the semi-final with a proactive and aggressive approach, pushing their defensive line high immediately after kick-off and applying constant pressure on the U22 Philippines goal. The team in red focused much of their attacking play down the flanks, where Dinh Bac and Le Viktor repeatedly broke into the penalty area to meet low crosses and cut-backs. This approach allowed U22 Vietnam to create a series of dangerous chances, but a lack of composure and accuracy in the final touch prevented them from taking the lead.
Despite being under pressure for large spells, U22 Philippines also showed moments of threat on the counter-attack, forcing the Vietnamese back line to stay alert. Their occasional quick breaks helped them relieve pressure and ensured the first half ended goalless, with both sides heading into the break locked at 0-0.
After the restart, U22 Vietnam maintained their attacking intensity. Head coach Kim Sang Sik made bold adjustments to increase firepower, introducing Thanh Nhan, Van Thuan and Thai Son in an effort to break the deadlock. The substitutions injected fresh energy and urgency into Vietnam’s play, with the team continuing to dominate possession and push higher up the pitch as the match entered its closing stages.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 89th minute. From a well-worked attacking move, Van Thuan rose above the defence to head home, breaking the resistance of U22 Philippines and sparking celebrations on the Vietnamese bench. Just three minutes later, in stoppage time, Thanh Nhan put the result beyond doubt with a beautifully taken free kick, sealing a 2-0 victory for U22 Vietnam.
The win sends U22 Vietnam into the men’s football final of SEA Games 33, highlighting the depth and resilience of Kim Sang Sik’s squad. With decisive contributions from players coming off the bench, U22 Vietnam once again demonstrated their ability to rise at crucial moments and keep their dream of SEA Games gold firmly alive.
Hong Phuc – Thanh Trang
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