Vietnam 1-2 Malaysia: A disappointing finish

Nhan Dan Online - Vietnam were officially eliminated from the SEA Games football campaign following their disappointing 1-2 loss to defending champions Malaysia in the final Group A matchup at Zeyar Thiri Stadium on December 17. 

U-23 Vietnam (red) missed out once more on the SEA Games championship title
U-23 Vietnam (red) missed out once more on the SEA Games championship title

Vietnam started the game with strong determination, knowing that a win over Malaysia was a must to secure a semifinals berth.

The red team played better in the first 45 minutes, creating many chances to score, but failing to convert them into goals due to an excellent showing from the Malaysian goalkeeper.

The second half began with opportunities equally spread for both sides; however, neither made successful use of them.

It was not until the 82nd minute that the deadlock was broken. Taking advantage of Vietnam's defensive mistakes, Chuchu opened the scoring for Malaysia with a powerful left-footed strike.

Just nine minutes later, Saarvindran doubled his team lead with a rapid counter-attack, putting an end to Vietnam's football campaign at this year's SEA Games.

Mac Hong Quan managed to narrow the gap to 1-2 for Vietnam in injury time, but it was not enough to save his team from defeat.

Earning just six points from four games, Vietnam failed to advance past the group stage and again missed the opportunity to fulfil their dream of SEA Games gold.