Vietnam’s U20 women pass first Asian Cup qualification

A 1-1 draw against India on Saturday night made Vietnam the only team in group F to advance to the second qualifying round of the U20 Women’s Asian Cup.

In the last group F game of the round, home advantage meant that Vietnam only needed a draw with India, who needed to win to advance.

India were not an easy opponent. Their physical strength overpowered Vietnam and a long-range strike from Babina Devi scored an early opener in the 12th minute.

The goal forced Vietnam to push forward and attack for an equalizer in the last additional minute of the first half.

After an assist from the right flank, a strike by Tran Nhat Lan hit the post. However, a poor clearance from an India defender brought the ball right back to Lan again. She faked a shot before finishing into the far corner of the net to seal the game’s fate.

In the second half, India attacked with all they could but failed to penetrate Vietnam’s two-layer defense.

When the game ended, Vietnam had all they needed: a 1-1 score.

After three games, Vietnam were tied with India with seven points.

But Vietnam’s U20 placed first with a higher goal difference (+14 compared to +13). Vietnam became the third team to advance to the second qualifying round, after China and Australia.

The second qualifying round will take place from Jun. 3 to 11 with eight teams divided into two groups. The two top teams of each group will qualify for the U20 Women’s Asian Cup in Uzbekistan next year.