Vietnam, having defeated Chinese Taipei 1-0 in their opening match, headed into the top-spot decider with strong determination knowing that a draw would be enough to secure them a slot in next year’s Finals.
However, the first half turned out to be an evenly fought contest with neither side being able to find a way through.
After the break, Vietnam made two substitutions as head coach Park Hang-seo deployed Ho Thanh Minh and Nham Manh Dung to replace Le Xuan Tu and Lieu Quang Vinh.
The reigning SEA Games champions produced a better start to the second half with Ly Cong Hoang Anh blasting a long-range strike over the bar.
After a number of missed opportunities, Park’s side successfully broke the deadlock in the 59th minute thanks to a powerful close-range header by substitute Ho Thanh Minh.
The opener relieved pressure off the Vietnamese players and encouraged them to play more confidently.
Vietnam almost added a second 10 minutes after the hour mark, but Ho Thanh Minh’s header was comfortably handled by Myanmar goalkeeper Pyae Phyo Thu.
With just a few minutes left, Myanmar were reduced to 10 men after Aung Wunna Soe was shown a straight red card for his brutal foul on Hoang Anh.
Park’s troop made use of such a numerical advantage to defend the score until the final whistle.
The second consecutive win put Vietnam on top of Group I with six points, which means they will play in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals for the fourth time in a row.