China coach disappointed after failing to beat Vietnam in 90 minutes

Coach Anthony Milicic expressed dissatisfaction after China needed extra time to secure a 1-0 victory over Vietnam in the women's football quarterfinals at ASIAD 2026.

At Nagai Stadium on 25/9, China dominated possession with 61% but only broke the deadlock in the 109th minute through Wang Shuang. This marked the first time China had been held to a draw by Vietnam in 90 minutes in an official women's football tournament.

China's finishing quality was a key issue in the match. Before scoring, forward Wang Shuang squandered at least three close-range opportunities. Additionally, Chinese attackers were repeatedly denied by the excellent performance of goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh. Early in the game, midfielder Wang Yanwen, who plays for Dijon in the French league, had a close-range tap-in saved. In second-half stoppage time, Shao Ziqin's shot from inside the box was also brilliantly parried by the goalkeeper, born in 1993.

Australia's coach Anthony Milicic of the China women's national team attends a press conference before the East Asian women's football tournament 2025 in South Korea on 8/7/2025. Photo: Xinhua News Agency

"It was a disappointing day because we should have scored earlier within 90 minutes", coach Milicic said. "But ultimately, I am happy we secured the overall victory."

In contrast to China's tension, Vietnam's players appeared relaxed entering the match, despite missing key players due to injuries. Coach Hoang Van Phuc praised his team for executing their proactive defensive style and quick transitions effectively. Against a physically superior opponent, the players bravely held and passed the ball to limit attacks and kept a clean sheet for most of the game. This was a significant improvement compared to their group stage losses of 1-2 to Chinese Taipei and 0-8 to Japan.

Goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh (blue jersey) plays in the 0-1 loss to China in the ASIAD 2026 football quarterfinals, at Nagai Stadium, Japan on 25/9/2026. Photo: VFF

Goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh (blue jersey) plays in the 0-1 loss to China in the ASIAD 2026 football quarterfinals, at Nagai Stadium, Japan on 25/9/2026. Photo: VFF

"What satisfied me most was how the players performed with flair, especially their confidence against a technically and physically strong opponent", coach Phuc stated. "Goalkeeper Kim Thanh also set an example, maintaining her form even over 30 years old, particularly in commanding the defense."

ASIAD 2026 marks the first tournament for the Vietnam national team under coach Hoang Van Phuc. The team achieved its goal of advancing past the group stage while also providing opportunities for many new players. "The young and new players played quite confidently whenever given a chance. That is a positive sign in the process of building a new squad", Mr. Phuc added.

The three remaining quarterfinals also saw the stronger teams prevail: North Korea defeated Chinese Taipei 5-1, Japan overcame the Philippines 4-0, and South Korea beat Uzbekistan 6-3.

The semifinals will take place on 29/9, featuring China against North Korea and Japan facing South Korea.