Coach Hoang Anh Tuan did not send in his best players, because a draw or even a 0-3 loss to the Philippines could also send Vietnam to the semi-finals. Therefore, a number of reserve players in the August 20 match against Laos, such as Xuan Tien, Huu Tuan, Hong Phuc, Long Vu were sent in from the beginning.

Without having many scoring chances, Vietnam suddenly opened the scoring in the 18th minute. Dang Duong passed a cross to Huu Tuan who then kicked the ball close to the vertical post, putting Vietnam ahead.

Philippines players launched lightning attacks in an attempt tn earn an equalizer. However, they could not break the defensive line of their opponents.

Indeed, the Philippine players carved out two scoring chances from free kicks, but they failed in the end, though Vietnamese goalkeeper Van Chuan all made mistakes.

The Philippines accepted the 0-1 defeat, and Vietnam cruised into the semi-finals.

In the coming two semi-final matches, Group C winners Vietnam will take on Group B winners Malaysia, while Group A winners Thailand will clash Group B second-placed Indonesia.