Vietnam top Women's AFF Cup group stage, enter semifinals

After the crushing 4-0 win against Myanmar on Wednesday night, Vietnam claimed the top spot of group B and advanced to the semifinals of the 2022 Women’s AFF Cup.

In the last game of group B against Myanmar, Vietnam only needed a draw to protect the top position, as they had won the three previous matches, over Laos (3-0), Cambodia (5-0) and Timor Leste (7-0).

Myanmar were considered the main competition of Vietnam for the top spot. Before playing Vietnam, they also won against Laos, Cambodia and Timor Leste, with a goal difference of +11 compared to Vietnam's +14.

However, the clash between Vietnam and Myanmar was one-sided. After dominating the game and missing some chances, Vietnam opened the score in the 16th minute. Myanmar keeper May Zin Nwe didn't handle a pass on the left flank well and let Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung tap it in. 20 minutes later, Vietnam got the second goal after Tuyet Dung was fouled inside the box and she successfully converted the penalty.

Before the first half ended, Vietnam led by three goals to nil. From a freekick, defender Chuong Thi Kieu made a lofted pass for Huynh Nhu and the captain controlled the ball cleanly then defeated Myanmar keeper one on one.

With a safe lead, Vietnam played more comfortably and relaxed but still controlled the game and created many chances in the second half, but they lacked accuracy. In the last 10 minutes, both teams were only waiting for the final whistle as they slowed down and didn't attack much, but Vietnam still scored another goal in the 89th minute, by Pham Hai Yen.

This result helped Vietnam claim 12 points after four games, with 18 goals scored and a clean sheet. The team will face Philippines, the second-placed team in group A, in the semifinals on Friday, while Myanmar will face Thailand.

The women’s AFF Championship is being played in Manila from July 4 to 17.