SEA Games 33: Vietnam's Dinh Bac (in white jersey) scores a brace, helping Vietnam defeat Laos 2-1 in a hard fought match of Group B
Head coach Kim Sang-sik fielded an attack-minded lineup, but Laos defended compactly and battled aggressively, leaving Vietnam struggling to find space around the penalty area. Crosses from the wings lacked accuracy, and the clearest threats came from Nguyen Dinh Bac - the standout performer of Vietnam in the match.
Dinh Bac opened the scoring in the 29th minute after a well-timed assist from Pham Minh Phuc. But less than five minutes later, poor marking on a corner allowed Khampane Douangvilay to finish from close range and equalize the scoring.
Despite controlling 71 per cent of possession and producing more shots on target, Vietnam failed to break down Laos’ layered defence again before halftime.
Vietnam intensified their pressure in the second half, and the turning point arrived in the 60th minute when Dinh Bac again struck a powerful long-range shot to extend the lead.
The assistant referee initially ruled the goal out for offside, believing striker Nguyen Quoc Viet obstructed goalkeeper Lokphathip Kop’s vision. After strong protests from Vietnam and a sideline consultation, the referee overturned the decision and awarded the goal, sparking heated objections from the Lao bench.
Laos pushed for an equaliser late in the match, with Khampane nearly scoring a second in the 81st minute. Vietnam also squandered a clear chance when Dinh Bac shot wide with the goal open.
In stoppage time, Laos appealed for a penalty after a collision in the box, but the referee waved play on.
Vietnam held on to secure a 2-1 win in their opening match. Kim Sang-sik’s side will have an eight-day break before taking on Malaysia on December 11, while Laos meet Malaysia in the next round.
