On the evening of 16/8, tens of thousands of fans flocked to Lach Tray Stadium to support the Vietnamese women's team in their crucial match against Australia. A victory would have propelled coach Chung's team to the final, bringing them one step closer to reclaiming the Southeast Asian women's football title – a tournament Vietnam has won three times.

However, facing a youthful and physically imposing Australian U23 team, Vietnam appeared overwhelmed, conceding goals in the 6th and 17th minutes. The home team had previously maintained a clean sheet throughout the three group stage matches.

Coach Mai Duc Chung directs his team during the semi-final match against Australia at Lach Tray Stadium, Hai Phong on the evening of 16/8. Photo: Le Tan

Coach Mai Duc Chung directs his team during the semi-final match against Australia at Lach Tray Stadium, Hai Phong on the evening of 16/8. Photo: Le Tan

Conceding early goals made it difficult for Vietnam. Despite their efforts, Chuong Thi Kieu and Huynh Nhu had chances but couldn't capitalize. It wasn't until the 88th minute, partially due to goalkeeper Lincoln's handling error, that Vietnam managed to pull one back through Bich Thuy's individual effort.

The defeat cost Vietnam the chance to equal Thailand's record of four championships. However, the two powerhouses will now face each other in the bronze medal match on 19/8. In the earlier semi-final, Thailand suffered an unexpected 2-1 loss to Myanmar.

"We didn't perform at our best and haven't met expectations. The players put in a lot of effort in the second half, but couldn't satisfy the fans," coach Chung stated after the match. "We were deeply moved by the support from fans in Hai Phong and across the country. We will focus even more to win against Thailand in the next match."

Midfielder Bich Thuy shared the disappointment of missing the final on home turf. She admitted the team started poorly despite having thoroughly analyzed Australia's playing style and strengths and weaknesses. "Conceding early goals left us in a difficult position. But it's in the past now, and we must quickly regain our composure and determination to win against Thailand and secure the bronze medal," she said.

Following the victory, Australia's coach Joseph Palatsides admitted to moments of anxiety, fearing a comeback fueled by the fervent Vietnamese crowd. "We performed very well in the first half, but in the second half, I anticipated Vietnam's increased attacking pressure. I even considered the possibility of a reversal, so I instructed my players to slow down the tempo to maintain control. Vietnam played well and strongly, but our players executed the plan effectively to reach the final," Palatsides shared.

In the 13 editions of the tournament, Australia won the championship in 2008 with their U23 team. They now have the opportunity to repeat this feat when they face Myanmar in the final, also on 19/8. "We lost 2-1 to Myanmar in the qualifiers, but our players have matured and improved significantly with each match. We will thoroughly study our opponent, just as we prepared before facing Vietnam," coach Palatsides added.

Match schedule for 19/8:

4:30 PM: Vietnam - Thailand

7:30 PM: Myanmar - Australia

Duc Dong