Vietnam defeat Myanmar to reach AFC U17 Women’s quarter-finals
VOV.VN - Vietnam booked a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup after edging Myanmar 2-1 in a tense final Group A clash on May 7.
The victory lifted Vietnam to four points, level with Thailand, but enough to secure second place on goal difference after Thailand suffered a heavy 0-6 defeat to China in the other group match.
Vietnam entered the decisive game under pressure following a draw with Thailand and a 0-3 loss to tournament favorites China, knowing only a convincing win would keep their knockout hopes alive.
After a nervy opening spell in which Myanmar threatened several times, Vietnam gradually settled into the match through quick passing combinations and controlled possession. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Linh Chi curled in a long-range free kick from around 25m, with the Myanmar goalkeeper unable to keep the ball out.
The goal boosted Vietnam’s confidence and the team maintained defensive discipline despite Myanmar’s attempts to equalise before halftime.
Vietnam doubled the lead in the 55th minute through another impressive set piece, as Ngoc Anh struck a superb free kick from the left side. Myanmar responded in the 66th minute when striker Dar Hnin pulled one back, setting up a tense finish.
The final 20 minutes saw Vietnam defend resolutely under sustained pressure, with the players showing strong determination and resilience to preserve the result.
Speaking after the match, head coach Masahiko Okiyama praised his players’ fighting spirit after the team secured a place in the quarter-finals.
“Perhaps the previous two matches were too exhausting, so the players had not fully recovered physically. However, they stayed united, encouraged one another strongly and fought together for the victory,” Okiyama said.
He added that the team must now focus on recovery and preparation ahead of the quarter-finals.
“We have to prepare very carefully for the next match. The important thing is for the players to maintain their health and form so they are ready to compete against any opponent,” he said.
Vietnam are scheduled to play their quarter-final match at 2 p.m. on May 11. A victory would not only send the team into the semi-finals but also secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
Vietnam U17 women fall 3-0 to China, face difficulties
VOV.VN - Vietnam U17 women’s team lost 3-0 to hosts China on May 4 in Suzhou, China, leaving them in a difficult situation in Group A at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup.
