Vietnam produced an impressive comeback to beat Pakistan 4-2 in a dramatic Group B match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Indonesia on October 2.
Vietnam, in red, beat Pakistan Pakistan 4-2 in a dramatic Group B match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Indonesia on October 2 (Photo: VFF).
The victory secured second place in the group for Kim Sang Sik's side, who will face Malaysia in the third-place play-off on October 5.
Pakistan made the stronger start, applying sustained pressure before taking a surprise lead in the 32nd minute. A misunderstanding between Hoang Hen and Ngoc Bao allowed Mohib Ullah to steal the ball and beat goalkeeper Le Giang Patrik to put Pakistan 1-0 ahead.
Vietnam pushed forward after falling behind but lacked sharpness in attack. Pakistan remained aggressive and organised, defending tightly to deny Kim's players space around the penalty area.
The game changed completely after half-time. Hai Long restored parity in the 50th minute, making it 1-1.
Seven minutes later, Vietnam completed the turnaround to take a 2-1 lead.
Dinh Bac added a third in the 80th minute, putting Vietnam 3-1 ahead.
Pakistan pulled one back in the 88th minute to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
Vietnam responded just two minutes later, restoring their two-goal advantage and sealing a 4-2 victory.