Prior to the game, Vietnam temporarily led the group standings with six points following two victories over the Philippines (2-1) and Timor Leste (4-0), placed above second-placed Thailand thanks to a better goal difference (5:4).
Coach Nguyen Quoc Tuan’s side only needed a draw against the Thai competitors to secure top spot as the group stage wrapped up.
Given that fact, the Golden Dragons went into the match with great determination and produced the first threat of the match after 22 minutes, as Thien Duc’s left-footed strike from long range was parried to safety by Thai goalkeeper Korraphat Nareechan.
In the remainder of the opening half, Vietnam created two clear-cut opportunities to cruise ahead, but Duc Nam failed to convert any of them with two inaccurate attempts (26’, 33’) in a row inside the penalty box.
The second half continued to see Vietnam dominate as Tuan’s side poured constant attacking pressure onto the Thai goal seeking to break the deadlock. Unfortunately, the Thai players maintained a high level of concentration, defended solidly and successfully safeguarded their net until the final whistle.
The two rare highlights of the latter 45 minutes was a strike over the crossbar by Thailand’s Jedsadakorn (55’) and a free-kick off the post by Vietnam’s Tong Anh Ty (57’).
Vietnam have progressed into the semifinals as Group A winners.
Despite missing out on a win, the goalless tie was enough to secure Vietnam the top spot of Group A with seven points and a better goal difference (5:4) against second-placed Thailand, who also secured seven points after two wins and one draw.
In the semifinals, Thailand will compete against Cambodia, who have been confirmed as Group B winners following their two wins despite still having one game in hand. Meanwhile, Vietnam will have to wait for the results of the Malaysia-Myanmar and Indonesia-Cambodia clashes on February 22 to know their next opponents.
