Entering the final group match trailing Malaysia on goal difference, Vietnam needed a win to claim the top spot, even though a draw was enough to advance.
Coach Kim Sang-sik’s side started aggressively from the opening whistle, posing constant threats down the left wing and forcing Malaysia to defend deep.
Vietnam broke the deadlock in the 11th minute when Đình Bắc’s precise corner delivery allowed Hiểu Minh to head in the opener. Malaysia, forced to abandon their defensive setup, pushed higher in response but exposed themselves to Vietnam’s counterattacks.
In the 22nd minute, Đình Bắc once again surged down the left flank and crossed for Minh Phúc, who calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sharani to extend Vietnam’s lead. With a comfortable cushion, Vietnam shifted to a more controlled tempo, focusing on midfield stability rather than relentless attacking.
The second half saw fewer chances, as Vietnam deliberately slowed the game and rotated key players to conserve fitness for the knockout stage.
Malaysia struggled to create meaningful opportunities, and goalkeeper Trung Kiên faced little pressure throughout the match. Despite late urgency from coach Nafuzi Zain’s squad, the “Malayan Tigers” failed to break through Vietnam’s disciplined defence.
The 2–0 result ensured Vietnam finished top of Group B and advanced to the semifinals with renewed confidence following their narrow and lacklustre opening win over Laos.
