Vissai Ninh Binh reach 2014 AFC Cup quarterfinals

Nhan Dan – Striker Pham Van Quyen scored twice to help XM The Vissai Ninh Binh emerge as 4-2 victors against India’s Churchill Brothers in the round of 16 on May 13 and dash into the quarterfinal round of the 2014 AFC Cup. 

Van Quyen (number 10) gives an outstanding performance, with two goals in Ninh Binh’s 4-2 victory. (Source: VTC News)
Van Quyen (number 10) gives an outstanding performance, with two goals in Ninh Binh’s 4-2 victory. (Source: VTC News)

>> AFC Cup 2014: Vissai Ninh Binh win last group match

Balwant Singh broke the deadlock for the Indian side in the 21st minute. The lead, however, did not last long as Van Thang restored parity with a skilful shot from just outside the penalty area two minutes later, leaving goalie Lalit Thapa little chance to thwart the danger.

Foreign forward Sim Woon Sub made it 2-1 for the home side Ninh Binh in the 27th minute, which inspired Ninh Binh players’ competitive spirit and sharpened their attacks during the remainder of the game.

Seven minutes after the hour mark, Van Quyen, who used to be referred to as the ‘Golden Boy’ of Vietnam football, rubbed salt on Churchill’s wounds as he doubled the advantage with a cunning shot towards the far corner of the Indian goal.

Abdelhamid Shabana pulled one back for the away side on penalties in the 80th minute and rekindled their hopes for a resurgence, but it was Quyen's second goal on stoppage time that completely extinguished Churchill’s hope for a dramatic comeback.

Other Vietnamese representatives, defending V-League champions Hanoi T&T, who finished atop Group F qualification, will entertain Group H runners-up Nay Pyi Taw today for a ticket to the quarterfinal stage.