AFF U20 Championship: Vietnam draw with Thailand due to poor finishing

Despite Vietnam having more opportunities than their Thai guests, they had to accept a 1-1 draw due to poor finishing in their second match on August 2 in the Southeast Asian under-20 football championship being held in Ho Chi Minh City. 

In the 5th minute, forward Dinh Hiep missed a goal scoring chance after his header almost went in. The visitors then took the lead in the 14th minute after a header by Thai striker Wanthon was deflected into the net by defender Ngoc Anh.

After the goal, the Thais focused on defence, but the hosts seemed to find more space than before and scored their equaliser through Hong Viet in the 37th minute. Actually Hong Viet had four excellent opportunities for Vietnam to take the lead.

Vietnam played a determined game in the second half as Vietnamese Coach Nguyen Manh Cuong decided to replace goalkeeper Thanh Tung due to his poor performance in the first half. Vietnam”s continuous pressure frustrated the Thai rivals who rarely troubled goalkeeper Nguyen Thanh Nam from then on.

Vietnam”s last chance of the game fell to striker Dinh Hiep who missed his second chance to score when his shot went wide of an open goal.

After the game, Thai Coach Kawin Kachendecha admitted that they were lucky to secure a draw with Vietnam because many of his players had bad performances. SOur target is to top Group B and we expect to meet Vietnam again in the final match,⬝ he said.

Meanwhile, Coach Nguyen Manh Cuong of Vietnam said: SThe result reflected truly the abilities of the two teams.⬝

In other match of Group B, Brunei beat Cambodia 2-1. After two games, Thailand are now equal with Vietnam on four points but lead the group on goal difference.

NhandanOnline