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U19 Vietnam make AFF semi-finals
  • | VOV | September 16, 2013 08:46 AM
Vietnam has qualified for the semi-finals of the ongoing ASEAN U19 Youth Football Championship in Indonesia, after defeating their hosts 2-1 on September 14.

Hargianto gave Indonesia an early lead in the first minute before Duc Huy scored an equalizing goal in the 30th minute.

Striker Van Toan extended Vietnam’s lead four minutes later, completing a convincing victory over Indonesia.


The game was described as decisive as both Vietnam and Indonesia had won two earlier games, and another win would open wide the door for the winners to cruise into the semi-finals.

Hargianto’s disputable goal in the first minute of the game put Vietnam at a disadvantage. From his strong kick, the ball hit the horizontal bar and bounced down, touching the line. Referee Xaypaseuth Phonsanit accepted the goal.

Despite the opening goal, Coach Graechen Guillaume’s men still looked comfortable with counterattacks on Indonesia’s field, and they missed a chance to strike an equalizing goal in the first 15 minutes.

Their constant efforts paid off on 30 minutes when Vietnam was awarded a corner kick. From the corner, Xuan Truong set up the ball for Duc Huy to jump up and head home.

Four minutes later, striker Van Toan capitalized on an Indonesian defender’s mistake, slotting the ball into the net from close range.

Indonesian players tried to make the score even in the second half, but no more goals were scored.

Vietnam topped Group B with nine points after three consecutive wins, earning a place in the semi-finals.

In their next group matches, Vietnam will meet underdogs Myanmar and Brunei.

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