Futsal: Vietnam top Group B after 2-0 win against Australia

Vietnam tasted a sweet start at the 2019 AFF HDBank Futsal Championship by beating tough opponents Australia with two unanswered goals in their Group B opener at Phu Tho Gymnasium in Ho Chi Minh City on October 21.

Vietnamese players celebrate their victory. (Photo: Vnexpress.net)
Vietnamese players celebrate their victory. (Photo: Vnexpress.net)

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The two goals of Miguel Rodrigo’s side were scored in the second half thanks to Manh Dung and Minh Tri. This result lifted Vietnam to top of the group with a better goal difference against Malaysia, who edged past Indonesia 3-2 in another match earlier the same day.

Under the strong support from home fans, Vietnam produced an overwhelming game against the young Australian side but failed to convert their opportunities into a goal throughout the first half, mainly due to the brilliance of the Australian keeper.

The hosts maintained their pressure after the break with constant attacks on the opposite goal. After a series of wasted chances, Rodrigo’s troops finally opened the scoring with Manh Dung’s powerful shot in the 28th minute.

A one-on-one situation between a Vietnamese player and the Australian keeper. (Photo: VFF)

The remaining minutes saw Australia strengthen their offence to seek an equaliser, but they were not able to break through Vietnam’s solid defence.

With just a few minutes left to play, Minh Tri blasted a decisive strike from a free-kick situation to seal a convincing 2-0 victory for the home side.

Next up for Vietnam will be Indonesia on October 22.

In Group A, Thailand thrashed Cambodia 12-0 to reign on top, followed by Myanmar, who trounced Timor Leste 6-1.

The 2019 AFF HDBank Futsal Championship is taking place in HCM City from October 21 to 27, with the three best teams qualifying for next year’s AFC Championship.