The Group B standings have become unpredictable following the Philippines' surprising one-two loss to Myanmar in their opening match. This result means the Philippines must win their two remaining games, while Vietnam also cannot afford a stumble. A defeat would immediately put Coach Mai Duc Chung's squad in a difficult position, as their final group stage match is against Myanmar, considered the "wildcard" team of this year's tournament.

To mitigate risks, Coach Chung's team must navigate this crucial encounter with the Philippines by securing a favorable outcome, at minimum a draw.

The Philippines women's football program has undergone a significant transformation since it began recruiting players of Filipino descent from the United States and Asia. This strategy led them to win the 2022 Southeast Asian Championship and qualify for the 2023 World Cup. However, their record at the SEA Games has been less consistent, with their sole medal being a bronze in 2021. Notably, at the 2023 SEA Games, they defeated Vietnam two-one in the group stage but were subsequently eliminated due to a lower goal difference than Myanmar.

Under the guidance of Coach Mark Torcaso, the Philippines squad features a strong contingent of players competing internationally, including Olivia McDaniel, Sara Eggesvik, Jaclyn Sawicki, and Hali Long. They are complemented by familiar faces such as Inna Palacios, Nina Meollo, Sofia Wunsch, Malea Cesar, and Azumi Oka.

The Philippines' primary strengths lie in their height and physical prowess. Coach Torcaso frequently employs a strategy of attacking down the wings and delivering crosses into the penalty area, capitalizing on his team's superior aerial ability. Vietnamese players are acutely aware of this tactic, having been thoroughly outplayed in a zero-four defeat to the Philippines at the 2022 AFF Cup.

To counteract the Philippines' modern playstyle, Vietnam plans to rely on technical skill and fluid coordination to exhaust their opponents. The team is expected to deploy two young and agile fullbacks, Thanh Nha and Tran Thi Duyen, to disrupt the opponent's delivery of balls into Vietnam's penalty area. A significant boost for Vietnam is the return of goalkeeper Kim Thanh, who has recovered from injury and is ready to play. Her presence is crucial for commanding the defense, offering sound judgment on high balls and effective positioning, which instills greater confidence in the backline.

Quang Dzung - Vy Anh