The first semi-final between Cambodia and Timor Leste delivered an exciting contest until the very last minute. After a goalless first half, the second half exploded with goals. Cambodia took the lead twice thanks to Sarapich (51st minute) and Nat Neth (71st minute), but both times Timor Leste equalised through striker Almeida, who scored in both the 66th and 75th minutes.
With a 2-2 draw after regulation time, the match was decided by a dramatic penalty shootout. The shootout featured a tense back-and-forth battle, with pressure mounting on each kick. Cambodia ultimately triumphed with a razor-thin 11-10 win, securing the first spot in the tournament final.
In the second semi-final, Viet Nam 2 team delivered an efficient and composed performance to overcome a tough opponent, Thailand, with a 2-1 win. The home crowd erupted in the 14th minute when Tran Duc Nam scored with a clinical finish inside the box.
Thailand, however, quickly regained control. In the 34th minute, Songkran Paungnoi netted an equaliser, bringing the match back to level terms.
Fuelled by the home crowd’s energy and support in the second half, Nguyen Nhu Tuan scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute, sealing a 2-1 victory and sending Viet Nam 2 team to the final against Cambodia team, to be held on July 15 at Hang Day Stadium.
