Vietnam effectively placed one foot in the 2024/25 AFF Championship final after they ended a resilient Singapore with a 2-0 win at the Jalan Besar Stadium on December 26th’s first leg.
Despite Singapore dominating possession with 70%, they struggled to penetrate Vietnam’s resilient defense.
The match remained goalless after 90 minutes, leading into a lengthy injury time.
In the 100th minute, Nguyen Tien Linh converted a penalty to give Vietnam the lead.
Shortly after, in the 103rd minute, Nguyen Xuan Son doubled the advantage, securing the win for the Golden Star Warriors.
Vietnam had an early chance when Khuat Van Khang’s half-volley from the edge of the box went wide.
They also had a goal disallowed for offside in the 9th minute after Nguyen Thanh Chung’s close-range finish.
Singapore’s attempts to breach Vietnam’s defense were met with strong resistance, and their efforts lacked precision.
Vietnam’s Bui Vi Hao tested Singapore goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud with a deflected shot around the half-hour mark, but Mahbud made a comfortable save.
The first half ended 0-0, with both teams unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
In the second half, Vi Hao continued to challenge Mahbud with long-range efforts, but without success.
Singapore had a chance following a free-kick won by Ryhan Stewart, but Lionel Tan’s shot was blocked by Vietnam’s defense.
The match proceeded to extra time, where Vietnam’s decisive goals were scored, giving them a significant advantage ahead of the second leg. where Singapore will aim to overturn the deficit and Vietnam will look to maintain their lead to advance to their second consecutive AFF final.