Vietnam U22 smoothly advances to the semifinals

The opening goal by Hiểu Minh and the other by Minh Phúc, both scored in the first half. Vietnam U22 comfortably won 2-0 against Malaysia, as most fans expected. This secured first place in Group B and a semifinal spot at SEA Games 33.

As Thể thao & Văn hóa has frequently pointed out, for Vietnamese football in regional tournaments, the competition truly begins at the semifinal stage. This applies to all national team levels and even clubs, especially after the Southeast Asian Clubs Cup resumed.

Back to the final group match against Malaysia. This was not a challenging game, after we had won the U22 Southeast Asia Championship for the third consecutive time. The ticket and schedule for Vietnam U22 at SEA Games 33 are very favorable. Frankly, failing to win the gold medalat SEA Games 33would be a defeat.

In fact, coach Kim Sang Sik’s team did not have to put in much effort to get what they needed against Malaysia U22. Vietnamese youth football remains at a considerable level above the rest of Southeast Asia, except for the "giant" Thailand.

Although the final group matches have not yet taken place, we have already confirmed our semifinal opponent as Philippines U22, avoiding the host Thailand. The chance to reach the final is very real, though coach Kim Sang Sik remains cautious, saying: "We need to analyze Philippines U22 thoroughly to prepare well for this match. They play earlier, so they have more time to recover."