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The match, played at an eerily quiet Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta with fewer than 500 fans in attendance, showcased Vietnam’s resilience and tactical discipline.
Vietnam started strongly, controlling possession and creating several chances. Within the first 10 minutes, striker Nguyen Dinh Bac tested the post twice, narrowly missing on both occasions. Midfielder Khuat Van Khang and forward Vo Anh Quan orchestrated attacks from the flanks, keeping the Philippines defense busy.
The Philippines struck first in the 36th minute when Javier Mariona volleyed home from close range after a series of deflections inside the penalty area.
Just before halftime, Nguyen Dinh Bac pounced on a rebound to head in the equalizer, setting the tone for the second half.
Coach Kim Sang-sik’s men came out pressing aggressively after the break, maintaining high energy despite the tropical heat that forced a cooling break midway through the first half.
In the 54th minute, Nguyen Xuan Bac scored a crucial header from a precise cross by Nguyen Phi Hoang, putting Vietnam ahead 2-1. This marked Vietnam’s seventh goal of the tournament and their fourth headed goal, emphasizing their aerial strength.
As the match neared its conclusion, the Philippines struggled to maintain pressure due to fatigue. In added time, Jaime Rosquillo was sent off after denying a clear scoring chance, leaving the Philippines a man down. Vietnam earned a dangerous free kick, but Viktor Le’s shot missed the target.
Vietnam maintained their composure to see out the victory and book their place in the final.
Their opponents will be decided following the other semifinal later on Friday night between Thailand and Indonesia.
ASEAN U23 Championship semifinal: Vietnam 2-1 Philippines
