Viet Nam claim fourth place at AFF Women's Championship

Losing battle: Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet (right) seen during the match between Viet Nam and Australia at ASEAN Football Federation Women’s Championship yesterday. Viet Nam lost Australia 4-3. — Photo vff.org.vn

A double from striker Princess Ibini-Isei helped propel the Australian visitors to an exciting 4-3 win over hosts Viet Nam.

With the advantage of height, Australia quickly played attack and Ann Ferguson opened the score early in the fourth minute.

Immediately, Viet Nam kept up the momentum and did not lose focus while, after some sustained pressure in the tenth minute, saw Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet brought down inside the box by defender Ellie Carpenter.

In the 31st minute, Nguyet scored her second goal for Viet Nam.

The Australians were quicker after the break, as a half volley from Princess in the 56th minute, to be followed by another from Beatrice Goad in the 74th minute, gave Australia the lead at 3-2.

However, Viet Nam still played hard and their effort paid off. In the 84th minute, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung coolly put her header past the Australia goalkeeper to level the score at 3-3.

But Viet Nam’s happiness did not last long. During the injury time, Princess scored another goal to help Australia win 4-3.

According to Viet Nam’s head coach, Japanese Norimatsu Takashi, Viet Nam missed their chances to score goals in this match. Though players made every effort, they were still lacking in competitive experience, especially the young footballers.

In this match, Viet Nam improved its attack line, but the defensive line still needs to be sharpened.

The coach also sent apologetic words to Vietnamese fans because the team could not reach its target of winning the title, as planned.

After this match, Viet Nam will have a short training session in Australia from May 15-22.

In the final match played later yesterday, Thailand defeated Myanmar 3-2.