The US side quickly dominated the game, which took place at New Zealand’s national stadium Eden Park on July 21, and got their first goal in the 14th minute with a finish by Sophia Smith.
The Vietnamese defence had to work very hard to resist the US’s continuous attacks, with goalkeeper Kim Thanh making an excellent save to deny the defending champions a goal from a penalty kick awarded them after Hoang Thi Loan fouled Trinity Rodman in the box.
The score difference was only doubled in the 45+7 minutes with a second goal by Sophia Smith following a scramble in front of the Vietnamese keeper’s net.
 |
Goalkeeper Kim Thanh celebrates with her teammates after a save. |
After the break, the US continued their press but most of their chances failed to materialise and it was not until the 78th minute that captain Lindsey Horan was able to score a third goal to seal a 3-0 win for the defending champions.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Vietnam’s coach Mai Duc Chung said despite the loss he was pleased with the score, adding that it will boost the team’s efforts and determination towards upcoming games.
He praised the whole team, particularly goalkeeper Kim Thanh, for performing well to repel the US side’s attacks.
Chung stated that the team fulfilled a promise before the match that Vietnam may be outmatched in terms of skill, but would demonstrate a strong spirit against their higher ranking opponents.
 |
Vietnamese spectators at Eden Park. |
For her part, keeper Kim Thanh shared that the whole team worked really hard until the end.
Thanh said she was moved to hear the Vietnamese national anthem at Eden Park and proud as Vietnamese women’s football is getting better and better, having made it to major tournaments.
Vietnam’s upcoming match will be against Portugal on July 27.
 |
Vietnamese players pose for a photo after the match. |
