Vietnam triumphed 1-0 over Indonesia in their second match of the 2024 ASEAN Championship group stage on Sunday evening in Phu Tho Province, northern Vietnam, claiming the top spot in Group B with a perfect six points from two games.

Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai delivered a crucial moment of brilliance to help Vietnam secure a narrow victory.

Indonesia came into the match with a clear strategy of tight defense, leaving attacking stars like Pratama Arhan and Rafael Struick on the bench. 

Their coach, Shin Tae Yong, opted for a five-man defensive line, deep within their half, limiting Vietnam’s offensive opportunities.

As a result, despite dominating possession with 72 percent and registering 18 attempts compared to Indonesia’s 28-percent possession and just two shots, the hosts struggled to capitalize on their advantages, as many of their efforts came from difficult angles.

Only four of their shots were on target, and clear-cut chances were few. 

In the first half, Vietnam’s attacks were often thwarted by Indonesia’s tall and organized defense, forcing the home team to rely heavily on crosses.

In the second half, Indonesia shifted tactics, bringing on quicker players to launch counterattacks. 

This change nearly paid off as Vietnam’s defense was put under pressure on several occasions, with goalkeeper Filip Nguyen forced to make a crucial save against striker Victor Dethan in the 65th minute.

With the game still deadlocked, Nguyen Quang Hai emerged as the match-winner.

After a long-range shot from a Vietnamese player hit the crossbar, chaos ensued in the Indonesian penalty area. 

Nguyen Tien Linh calmly set up Quang Hai, who finished coolly to break the deadlock in the 77th minute.

The 1-0 scoreline held until the final whistle, securing Vietnam’s winning streak in the tournament with six points from two games in Group B.

On December 9, Vietnam thrashed Laos 4-1 in their opening game.

The 2024 ASEAN Championship kicked off on December 8, with the final set for January 5, 2025. 

Vietnam are placed in Group B, alongside Laos, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Myanmar.

They will next take on the Philippines on December 18 and Myanmar on December 21. 

Group A includes Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste.

During the group stage, each team play two home and two away matches to determine the top two teams advancing to the semifinals. 

The semifinals and finals follow a two-legged knockout format.

Vietnam aim to reach the finale at the tournament.

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