The referee sparked controversy again, putting Vietnam at a disadvantage in the AFF tournament.

The referee refused to award a penalty to Vietnam U19 futsal during the 2025 Southeast Asia U19 futsal semi-final.

Entering the semi-final, Vietnam U19 futsal faced a tough challenge against Indonesia — a team demonstrating comprehensive skills, stamina, and tactical awareness. After 30 minutes (end of the first half and halfway through the second), Vietnam U19 futsal trailed Indonesia U19 futsal 5-2.

In the last 10 minutes, coach Nguyễn Tuấn Anh implemented a power-play strategy to increase pressure. In the 34th minute, following a well-organized attack, Quang Huy scored to reduce the deficit to 3-5.

At the 38th minute, the referee reviewed the situation using VS (Video Support) technology when Tuấn Việt’s shot hit an Indonesian player’s hand inside the penalty area, but ultimately no penalty was given to Vietnam U19 futsal. Continuing with the power-play left the goal unguarded, allowing Indonesia to score two more goals in the 40th minute from long balls by goalkeeper Rochmatdhani, securing a 7-3 victory.

As a result, Vietnam U19 futsal will compete in the third-place playoff of the 2025 Southeast Asia U19 futsal tournament on December 29. Their opponent will be the loser of the second semi-final between Thailand and Malaysia. Previously, Vietnam U19 futsal also had a goal controversially disallowed in their 1-2 loss to Thailand in the final group match. While trailing 1-2, Vietnam U19 futsal had a valuable chance to equalize at 2-2.

Vietnam U19 futsal had several notable chances to level the score, but shots by Minh Vương and Minh Huy were unsuccessful. In the 35th minute, Vietnam U19 futsal scored on a fast counterattack, but the goal was disallowed, creating a contentious moment.

According to some sources, Vietnam U19 futsal did not commit any foul against Thai players in this play, but the Korean referee, Mr. Kim Taewan, ruled the goal out. This caused a strong reaction from the Vietnam U19 futsal coaching staff.