Xuan Son scores the first goal for Vietnam from a penalty in the 68th minute. (Photo: VNA)
The first half ended scoreless, prompting head coach Kim Sang-sik to overhaul the attack lineup with four substitutions: Xuan Son, Tuan Hai, Gia Hung and Hai Long came on for Tien Linh, Thanh Long, Van Do and Van Vi.
Naturalised Xuan Son, returning from a 10-month injury absence, made his long-awaited comeback.
Vietnam broke the deadlock in the 68th minute when Xuan Son scored from a penalty, taking his tally to eight goals in only six appearances for the national team.
Deep into stoppage time (90+3), Tien Anh delivered a tricky cross that the Lao goalkeeper failed to control. Tuan Hai seized the opportunity, making a spectacular overhead kick to seal the 2-0 win for Vietnam.
With this result, coach Kim’s squad achieved its point target ahead of the decisive qualifier against Malaysia at home next year, which will determine Vietnam’s spot in the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
