In the 30th minute, China's Xiang Yuwang tried to save the ball near Vietnam's goal line. Nguyen Hieu Minh rushed to intercept but collided heavily with his opponent. Immediately after, he lay on the field, clutching his right knee and crying out in pain.

Team doctors quickly entered the field to provide care. Teammates, including Pham Ly Duc, came over to comfort Hieu Minh. The center-back, born in 2004, appeared to be on the verge of tears, pulling his shirt over his face as he was stretchered off. He was then transferred to an ambulance to be taken to a hospital for further care and a more accurate assessment of his injury.

In the technical area, coach Kim Sang-sik quickly discussed with his coaching staff. He decided to substitute Nguyen Duc Anh into the game. Despite the pressure, Vietnam's defense held firm, ending the first half with a 0-0 score.

Hieu Luong