Vietnam are through to the semi finals of the AFF Suzuki Cup as Group A winners after seizing a comfortable 3-1 win over Philippines.
Ngo Hoang Thinh opened the scoring for Vietnam on the 9th minute mark, with a terrific finish, though the Azkals continued pushing hard on the offensive in search of an equalizer.
However, the home side went on to extend their lead just 6 minutes after the break, through Vu Minh Tuan. Just seven minutes later, Thahn Luong found the back of the net to make it three for the Golden Stars.
But the Azkals, who have been incredibly impressive throughout the tournament, pulled one back on the hour’s mark, which eventually gave them to momentum to launch more attacks.
That said, Vietnam looked solid at the back and held on to secure the win that puts them through to the semis as group winners. Philippines followed them as runners up, having secured maximum points from their initial two games.
Meanwhile, Indonesia romped to a massive 5-1 win over Laos, though it was unfortunately not enough for them to book a spot in the semis. Darmono scored for the Garudas early in the first half, before Lestaluhu increased it on the 20th minute mark.
They were then reduced to 10 men, after Supardi was given a straight red on the 27th minute, which allowed the space for Laos to pull one back just one minute later.
But in the second half, Indonesia regrouped and continued firing on all cylinders, which led to three more goals. Lestaluhu scored his second of the night, before Malik Zamrun added one on the 82nd minute.
And to provide proper consolation for the Indonesian fans, Souksavanh scored an own goal right at the death, to gift Indonesia their fifth goal of the night, and thus secure respectful exit from the competition.
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