Hanoi, 26 March 2026 – The Golden Star Warriors extended their winning streak to 12 matches with a convincing victory over Bangladesh, scoring all three goals in the first half. Pham Tuan Hai and Pham Xuan Manh both found the net from set-piece situations, highlighting the team’s effectiveness in dead-ball scenarios. However, the spotlight also fell on naturalized midfielder Do Hoang Hen, who was unable to mark his debut with a goal.
With a crucial Asian Cup qualifier against Malaysia approaching, coach Kim Sang Sik used the match to experiment with his lineup. Hoang Hen started from the beginning, and with more than half the squad being left-footed players, Vietnam displayed a fresh tactical approach. Around 5,000 fans at Hang Day Stadium witnessed an energetic performance from the home side.
Vietnam began on the front foot and quickly created chances. Hoang Hen missed an early opportunity in the fourth minute and came close again shortly after, but Bangladesh’s defense managed to intervene. The breakthrough came in the eighth minute when Tuan Hai capitalized on a corner from Truong Tien Anh, with the ball deflecting into the net.
Bangladesh briefly threatened in the 20th minute, forcing Dang Van Lam into a save, but that proved to be their only notable chance. Vietnam remained in control and doubled their lead in the 18th minute, as Xuan Manh headed home from a Quang Hai free kick. The visitors struggled to deal with aerial situations, conceding both early goals from set pieces.
The third goal arrived in the 38th minute, with Nguyen Hai Long finishing a well-worked move to cap off a dominant first-half display. It marked the first time under coach Kim Sang Sik that Vietnam scored three goals before halftime, underlining their attacking efficiency.
In the second half, several changes were made, including the introduction of Nguyen Xuan Son. Despite a slower tempo, Vietnam continued to create chances. Hoang Hen came closest to scoring in the 88th minute, striking the post with a long-range effort after a quick counterattack.
Although he did not score, Hoang Hen impressed with his movement and ability to link play, while Xuan Son is still regaining sharpness after his injury. The win serves as strong preparation for Vietnam ahead of their decisive clash with Malaysia on March 31, while also giving the coaching staff valuable insights into tactical options and squad depth.
VSN/RPT
Leave a Reply