With the match remaining deadlocked after the two official halves, Tien Linh became the hero of the host team as he powered in a header from Do Hung Dung’s free-kick to bring Vietnam into the second consecutive SEA Games final.
Park Hang-seo’s troops will play the title match against Thailand who also beat Indonesia 1-0 thanks to an extra-time goal by midfielder Weerathep Pomphan.
Throughout the first half, Vietnam had several shots on goal but were thwarted by Malaysia’s stout defending.
The best chance for Park Hang-seo’s side came in the 27th minute as Manh Dung’s through ball put Tien Linh in a one-on-one with goalkeeper Arzri Ab Ghani, but the Vietnamese forward unexpectedly placed a shot wide.
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Vietnam produce constant threats but could not break through Malaysia's solid defence. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)
After halftime, Vietnam maintained their offensive pressure, while Malaysia chose to play defensively, which made it difficult for the hosts to create any clear-cut opportunities.
Failing to find the back of the net during the 90 official minutes, both teams were forced to go into extra time to decide the game.
Vietnam came within inches of breaking the deadlock eight minutes into extra time when Bui Hoang Viet Anh’s shot went closely off the post.
As it seemed that a penalty shootout would be used to decide the winners, Tien Linh shined at the right time to seal a thrilling victory for Park Hang-seo’s side.
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Forward Nguyen Tien Linh celebrates scoring the late winner for Vietnam. (Photo: Nhan Dan)
Thailand narrowly beat Indonesia 1-0 thanks to a solitary goal by midfielder Weerathep Pomphan in extra time.
The Vietnam-Thailand final match is set to take place at Hanoi’s My Dinh National Stadium on May 22.
