Both Vietnam and Thailand had already secured quarter-final places before kick-off, with the match serving primarily to decide top spot in the group.

Thailand, rated the stronger side, pressed high from the outset. Early pressure saw Charoenphong test Vietnam’s defence with a series of shots, but the back line held firm and looked to counter when possible.

Vietnam’s first clear opening came in the fifth minute, when Ngoc Anh broke forward at pace and forced a save from the Thai goalkeeper.

Ngoc Anh and Tu Minh Quang continued to threaten with long-range efforts, though neither proved decisive. The first half ended scoreless.

After the break, the contest remained tight. In the 22nd minute, Akphan broke through one-on-one, only for goalkeeper Van Tu to deny him. Five minutes later, Thai Huy met Gia Hung’s free kick with a close-range effort that struck the post. Thailand responded soon after when Osaman Musa’s shot rattled the junction of the post and crossbar.

The decisive moment came in the 36th minute, when Aransanyalak capitalised on a defensive lapse to score the only goal of the match. Vietnam switched to a power-play approach in the closing stages, but efforts from Chau Doan Phat and Tu Minh Quang were kept out.

The result leaves Vietnam second in Group B behind Thailand. Head coach Diego Giustozzi’s side will face the Group A winners -Indonesia or Iraq in the quarter-finals.

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