Vietnam will play the Philippines in what will be the decisive match for their ticket to the semifinal during today’s 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup second round of the group stage in Thailand. The Vietnamese men’s debut fell short of expectations as they were held to a 1 – 1 draw by Myanmar in the opener last Saturday, while the Filipino contender also encountered a disappointing result with a 1 – 2 defeat to host Thailand. The two thus must win this key match in order to win the semi ticket. The Philippines’ coach, Michael Weiss, is banned from sitting on the bench during this match after throwing the ball at a Thai player in the Saturday match. But the coach said his absence is not a big deal for the team, as his assistants can “well carry out the coaching tasks thanks to good preparation.” The Philippines has already beaten Vietnam at the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, but this time it is still a challenge, he said at the press meeting before the game. “However, I think the Filipinos will play at their best form, and we will grab the chance to advance further,” he told reporters. Vietnamese players Dao Van Phong, Au Van Hoan, and Nguyen Sa will miss this important match due to injuries. But their coach, Phan Thanh Hung, remains unconcerned, saying he still has other high quality alternatives. “Vietnam must beat the Philippines to win the semifinal ticket, and we are determined to do so,” he told reporters.