Facing one of the tournament favourites, Vietnam entered the match under heavy pressure. Against much stronger opponents, coach Mai Duc Chung’s side aimed to limit the margin of defeat in order to keep alive their chances of finishing among the two best third-placed teams and securing a place in the next round, as well as maintaining hopes of a play-off spot for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

Japan quickly took control after kickoff, pushing forward and launching rapid attacks down both flanks. Vietnam’s defence was forced to work hard to contain the sustained pressure.

The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Ueki rose to head home from a cross on the right, giving Japan the lead.

Vietnam’s best chance came early in the match when Ngan Thi Van Su dribbled past a defender and fired a powerful shot inside the penalty area, but the effort went straight to the Japanese goalkeeper.

Goalkeeper Khong Thi Hang was one of Vietnam’s standout performers in the first half, making several key saves to keep the scoreline from widening before the break.

However, Japan’s dominance continued in the second half. Tanaka doubled the lead with a close-range strike shortly after the restart, and Japan added two more goals within the next 15 minutes.

Coach Mai Duc Chung introduced Huynh Nhu, Bich Thuy and Duong Thi Van in an attempt to boost Vietnam’s attack, but the scoreline remained unchanged as Japan secured a 4–0 victory.

In the other Group C match played at the same time, Chinese Taipei defeated India 3–1, a result that confirmed Vietnam’s elimination from the continental tournament.

Vietnam finished the group stage with three points and a goal difference of minus four. Compared with other third-placed teams such as the Philippines and Uzbekistan, both with a goal difference of minus two, Vietnam’s record left them outside the qualifying spots.

Despite the result, Mai Duc Chung praised his players’ fighting spirit against a higher-ranked opponent.

“Japan are a very strong team with a much higher level than us, but our players tried their best. What they showed on the field today deserves recognition,” he said.

Asked about his future after the tournament, the veteran coach said he plans to step down after completing his duties, allowing a new generation of coaches to take charge of the national team.

“After this tournament, I will step aside. I am happy that someone will soon take over and continue leading the Vietnam women’s team,” he said.

Tough qualification battle for Vietnam at AFC Women’s Asian Cup

VOV.VN - Vietnam are facing a difficult path to the quarter-finals of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup after Uzbekistan defeated Bangladesh 4-0 to secure a place in the knockout stage as one of the two best third-placed teams.