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Vietnam delivered an emphatic performance against Myanmar, securing a 5-0 victory in their final group stage match of the 2024 ASEAN Cup. The win not only confirmed Vietnam's dominance in Group B but also showcased the brilliance of debutant Nguyen Xuan Son, who dazzled with two goals and two assists. Vietnam will face Singapore in the semifinals, while Myanmar’s campaign ends in disappointment.
The match started with Vietnam asserting their dominance, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Naturalized Brazilian Xuan Son, playing his first match for the national team, was at the center of the action, with several attempts to find the net. The 27-year-old striker displayed excellent positioning and ball control, but his early shots were either saved by Myanmar goalkeeper Pyae Phyo Thu or went off target.
The first half ended goalless, with Vietnam hitting the post twice and missing a golden chance when Vi Hao failed to convert Xuan Son’s unselfish pass inside the box. Despite the lack of goals, Vietnam's superiority was evident, leaving fans confident heading into the second half.
Vietnam broke the deadlock shortly after the restart. In the 48th minute, Xuan Son’s precise cross found Vi Hao, who slotted the ball decisively into the net to give Vietnam the lead. Seven minutes later, Xuan Son scored his first goal for the national team, turning on a well-placed pass from Vi Hao to make it 2-0.
Captain Quang Hai added to the scoreline in the 74th minute, finding the back of the net with a low shot through a sea of legs, marking his 11th goal for the national team.
Xuan Son continued to shine, scoring his second goal in the 90th minute. Displaying his composure and technical skills, he dribbled past two defenders before firing the ball into the top corner.
Moments later, Xuan Son turned provider once again, delivering a perfectly weighted cross to Tien Linh, who capped off the scoring with Vietnam's fifth goal in stoppage time.
The 5-0 victory secured Vietnam’s spot at the top of Group B, allowing them to enter the semifinals with confidence. Xuan Son’s exceptional debut will undoubtedly be a highlight of Vietnam’s campaign, as the naturalized Brazilian striker proved his worth with his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking abilities.
Vietnam will face Singapore in the semifinals' first leg on Dec. 26.
ASEAN Cup group stage: Vietnam 5-0 Myanmar
