How keeper Lam was Vietnam's hero in World Cup qualifier against Iraq

After Vietnam's 2-0 victory against the Philippines last Thursday, Coach Philippe Troussier continued to trust Lam for the goal custodian position against Iraq in My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi.

The hosts had many difficulties launching attacks and making accurate passes in the first half, as the superior opponent Iraq pressed high pressure from the beginning.

Vietnamese Russian keeper made three important saves in the first half to save Vietnam from an early defeat.

The 30-year-old keeper made two more important saves in the second half.

Lam helps defender Phan Tuan Tai with a leg cramp before the doctor came.

He was quick with providing assistance anytime his teammates suffered injuries or cramps.

Lam checks on Que Ngoc Hai, who was hurt after trying to block an Iraq's counterattack in the 64' minute. Hai had to leave the game after that.

Hai's captain band is passed to Lam.

Lam shows his captainship, encouraging his teammates as Iraq continue to increase pressure.

Lam holds the ball after catching it.

He received a yellow card near the end of the game for wasting time.

The hope that Vietnam can leave the game with a draw was dashed with a heartbreaking goal in the last extra minute, when Ibrahim Bayesh crossed from the right for Mohanad Ali (number 10) to head it in.

Van and Vietnamese defenders could not stop the strong attack.

Lam and his team leave the pitch empty-handed.

"It's so regretful that we conceded the goal with only seconds left," Lam said after the match.

"We've tried our best, playing under very high pressure from Iraq. And because we have played with high spirit, suffering a defeat in the last seconds was such a grim ending."

Vietnam now stand second in Group F, after Iraq and above Indonesia and the Philippines.

They will continue the second World Cup qualification round with an away game against Indonesia on March 21, 2024.