The match, played at a high tempo in hot conditions, remained scoreless for nearly 90 minutes as the Philippines defended resolutely while Vietnam controlled possession and created more chances.
Coach Kim Sang-sik’s side eventually found the breakthrough in the closing stages, scoring twice within three minutes to secure the win.
Vietnam started cautiously but took the initiative early. Nguyen Phi Hoang and Nguyen Dinh Bac were active on the flanks, creating several opportunities in the opening minutes. In the fifth minute, Phi Hoang delivered a precise pass to Khuat Van Khang at the far post, but the captain failed to make clean contact. Moments later, Viktor Le was brought down after breaking through the defense, earning Vietnam a free kick in a dangerous position, though the effort was blocked.
Vietnam continued to apply pressure through wide areas. Dinh Bac tested the Philippine defense with direct dribbling, while Viktor Le attempted an overhead kick from a cross by Van Khang late in the first half. The Philippines relied on a compact defensive shape and long throw-ins into the penalty area, but Vietnam’s back line dealt effectively with the threat.
The first half ended goalless, with Vietnam hitting the post and forcing several saves from goalkeeper Nicholas Guimaraes.
After the break, the pattern of play remained largely unchanged. Vietnam introduced Nguyen Thanh Nhan from the bench and continued to probe patiently, with Xuan Bac and Thanh Nhan both going close.
Guimaraes produced a key save in the 76th minute to deny Xuan Bac from close range, keeping the Philippines level.
The decisive moment finally arrived in the 89th minute. Vietnam regained possession high up the pitch, and Phi Hoang delivered an accurate cross from the left for substitute Le Van Thuan, who rose to head the ball into the net and give Vietnam a 1-0 lead.
Just three minutes later, Vietnam doubled the advantage. Thanh Nhan, another substitute, curled a free kick into the far corner, out of the goalkeeper’s reach, to seal the result.
Vietnam saw out the remaining stoppage time to complete a 2-0 win and book their place in the final. They will face the winner of the other semi-final between Thailand and Malaysia later on Monday.
