>> Van Toan’s extra-time strike seals Vietnam a semifinal place
The government leader said he was very happy at the result and hopes the team can build on the spirit to clinch more victories in the upcoming matches.
Following striker Nguyen Van Toan’s extra time winner, Vietnam are through to the semifinals and will play the Republic of Korea on August 29. The other semifinal will see Japan take on the United Arab Emirates.
In the aftermath of victory, jubilant football fans throughout the country took to the streets to celebrate Vietnam’s qualification for the semi-finals of the men’s football at the Asian Games for the first time in history.
Last January, Vietnam made a historic journey to the final of the AFC U-23 Championship, finishing as runners-up after losing 1-2 to Uzbekistan.
Nguyen Van Toan celebrates after scoring the decisive goal of the match. (Photo: vnexpress.net)
Vietnam keeper Bui Tien Dung blocks an attack from the Syrian side.