Vietnam dominated Group B, defeating Laos 3-0 and Cambodia 2-1. With 43 shots, they averaged 21.5 shots per game, the highest in the tournament. Indonesia averaged 18.6, Malaysia and Thailand 18, and the Philippines 9.

Of the five teams, Vietnam's shot accuracy was 32.5%, with a goal conversion rate of 11.6%. This was only slightly better than Thailand's 30.5% accuracy and 11.1% conversion rate.

Khuat Van Khang takes a shot during Vietnam's 2-1 victory over Cambodia in the final Group C match of the 2025 AFF U23 Championship at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, 22/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

Khuat Van Khang takes a shot during Vietnam's 2-1 victory over Cambodia in the final Group C match of the 2025 AFF U23 Championship at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, 22/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

The Philippines boasted the highest shot accuracy at 48%, followed by Indonesia at 42.8% and Malaysia at 37%. Indonesia's goal conversion rate was the highest at 16%, followed by the Philippines at 14.8% and Malaysia at 13%.

Following the match against Cambodia yesterday, coach Kim Sang-sik analyzed the performance and noted a lack of confidence and poor finishing among his players. Midfielder Nguyen Xuan Bac echoed this concern before training this afternoon.

"We missed many opportunities, especially with Cambodia playing well," the PVF-CAND player stated. "Coach Kim has emphasized the need to improve our finishing and be more confident."

Of Vietnam's five goals so far, three have come from set pieces, and three from headers. Center-backs have scored three goals, while midfielders and forwards have each contributed one.

Against Cambodia, Khuat Van Khang's corner kick found center-back Pham Ly Duc for a headed goal in the 35th minute. In the 83rd minute, Nguyen Thanh Dat's cross from the left wing was met by Nguyen Dinh Bac's header to seal the 2-1 victory. The missed opportunities clearly frustrated coach Kim Sang-sik on the sidelines.

After Cambodia and Laos, Vietnam now faces a tougher challenge against the Philippines in the semi-final. "We've analyzed their game, and they are a strong, well-organized team. The coaching staff will devise a suitable strategy for victory," Xuan Bac said.

Despite being the underdogs, the Philippines surprised Malaysia with a 2-0 win and only lost to hosts Indonesia after a signature throw-in play. Coach Garrath McPherson's squad is physically strong and defensively disciplined.

In addition to their domestically trained players, the Philippines has seven players competing overseas: goalkeeper Nicholas Guimaraes (Juntendo University, Japan), Inigo Castro (Odisea, Spain), defender Noah Leddel (Yale University, USA), midfielder Jax Pena (Western Reserve Academy, USA), John Lecero (Kanchanaburi Power, Thailand), forwards Otu Bisong Banatao (Old Dominion University, USA) and Javier Mariona (AV Alta Club, USA).

Otu Banatao's two goals against Malaysia have drawn attention. Vietnam recognizes his skill. "However, our game plan focuses on neutralizing the entire team, not just one player," Xuan Bac explained.

The semi-final between Vietnam and the Philippines will take place at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, at 4 p.m. on 25/7.

Hieu Luong