Just three minutes into the match, goalkeeper Dang Van Lam had to make a quick, full-stretch save after a long-range effort from Lao captain Bounphachan Bounkong. A moment of poor concentration from defender Pham Xuan Manh added to Vietnam’s early worries.

Vietnam gradually regained control of the match. In the 20th minute, Hoang Duc missed a golden chance when his shot inside the box went over the bar. Nguyen Tien Linh also wasted at least three chances in the first half, including a close-range finish from just five metres.

Despite dominating possession, Vietnam lacked precision in their final touches, ending the first half with a disappointing 0-0 scoreline.

At the start of the second half, coach Kim Sang-sik made four substitutions at once, bringing on Xuan Son, Tuan Hai, Hai Long, and Gia Hung. The changes immediately boosted Vietnam’s attacking rhythm.

In the 59th minute, Xuan Son laid the ball off for Tuan Hai, who struck the crossbar with a powerful attempt - an early sign of danger for the hosts.

Nine minutes later, Tuan Hai dribbled down the byline and forced defender Phetdavanh Somsanith into a handball inside the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot. From 11 metres, Xuan Son calmly converted, giving Vietnam the lead and scoring his eighth goal in just six appearances for the national team.

After conceding, Laos pushed forward with determination. Bouphachan Bounkong and Damoth Thongkhamsavath, who are both competing in Vietnamese leagues, continuously troubled Vietnam’s defence. With a bit more luck, the home side could have found an equalizer.

However, their efforts were not enough to break through Vietnam’s backline.

In the final minute of added time, Vietnam launched a fast attack. Tien Anh sent in a tricky cross that caused confusion for the Laos goalkeeper. Tuan Hai reacted quickly, executing an acrobatic volley to secure a 2-0 win for the visitors.

Although the victory helps Vietnam maintain their three-point gap over Malaysia, the team’s performance still raised several concerns, especially their wastefulness in front of goal and shaky defensive moments early in the match.

Even so, the win provides important momentum ahead of Vietnam’s decisive clash against Malaysia on March 31, 2026 - a match that could determine the top position in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Xuan Son returns, Vietnam aim for win in Asian Cup qualifier against Laos

VOV.VN - Head coach Kim Sang-sik expressed confidence that Vietnam would secure a win in their upcoming clash against Laos in the coming 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, and that striker Xuan Son would score a goal to mark his return after a long injury layoff.