Sanna Khanh Hoa win first match at AFC champs

Both sides wasted numerous chances in the first half before Nguyen Trung Nam opened the score just minutes before the interval. 

The goal advantage galvanised them into coming out stronger in the second half and they scored a double through Phan Khac Chi and Tran Van Thanh. 

Chi was denied his second goal with four minutes remaining when goalkeeper Chiang Yung-hsuan stepped out quickly to save the low effort. 

Sanna Khanh Hoa moved to the top of the Group D standings with three points. 

Taipower also had their opportunities but Hung Kai-chun saw his low effort rebound back off the post. Soon after, Lin Chien-Hsun was presented with a golden opportunity, but was thwarted by outrushing keeper Nguyen Dinh Y Hoa. 

"It was a difficult match for both teams who all played well today. After the first goal we started to play better," Sanna Khanh Hoa coach Dang Dinh Khang said. 

"In the next match against Al-Sadd, who are a strong team, we have to try harder. If we get to the next round no opponent will be easy – all the teams are strong," he said. 

Their second match is on July 17. 

On the other side, Taipower coach Chen Kuei-Jen said the first half was okay for his team but the second was not that good as his players’ energy was low. They were less experienced and did not take chances. 

They are set to meet Al-Sadd on July 16, and Chen said Taipower would concentrate on defence and counter-attack. They would fight to win.

The two top teams of the group will advance to the quarter-finals. 

After their win, Sanna Khanh Hoa have ensured a berth into the next round.