Vietnam, having defeated Chinese Taipei 1-0 in their opening match, headed into the top-spot decider with strong determination knowing that a draw would be enough to secure them a slot in next year’s Finals.

Ho Thanh Minh (third from right) celebrates with teammates after opening the scoring for Vietnam U23s.

However, the first half turned out to be an evenly fought contest with neither side being able to find a way through.

After the break, Vietnam made two substitutions as head coach Park Hang-seo deployed Ho Thanh Minh and Nham Manh Dung to replace Le Xuan Tu and Lieu Quang Vinh.

The reigning SEA Games champions produced a better start to the second half with Ly Cong Hoang Anh blasting a long-range strike over the bar.

After a number of missed opportunities, Park’s side successfully broke the deadlock in the 59th minute thanks to a powerful close-range header by substitute Ho Thanh Minh.

The opener relieved pressure off the Vietnamese players and encouraged them to play more confidently.

Vietnam almost added a second 10 minutes after the hour mark, but Ho Thanh Minh’s header was comfortably handled by Myanmar goalkeeper Pyae Phyo Thu.

With just a few minutes left, Myanmar were reduced to 10 men after Aung Wunna Soe was shown a straight red card for his brutal foul on Hoang Anh.

Park’s troop made use of such a numerical advantage to defend the score until the final whistle.

The second consecutive win put Vietnam on top of Group I with six points, which means they will play in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Finals for the fourth time in a row.

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Vietnamese goalkeeper among those to watch at AFC U23 Asian Cup 2022 Qualifiers

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Stadium allowed to welcome 30% of viewers for Vietnam’s matches in World Cup qualifiers

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Vietnamese referee to officiate U23 Asian Cup qualifiers

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has appointed Ngo Duy Lan as referee for group H during U23 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Source: NDO