Thu Dec 11 09:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

Vietnam defeated Malaysia 2-0 in their final Group B match of the SEA Games 33 men’s football tournament, securing the top spot in the group. Goals from centre-back Nguyen Hieu Minh and defender Pham Minh Phuc led Vietnam to victory. The article details key moments of the match, including substitutions made by Vietnam coach Kim Sang-sik, instances of yellow cards awarded, and Malaysia’s efforts to attack. It also highlights the stakes of the match, with a win guaranteeing Vietnam a semi-final clash against the Philippines, while a draw would pit them against Thailand.

News Article:

Vietnam Secures Top Spot in SEA Games Group B with 2-0 Victory Over Malaysia

Rajamangala Stadium, Thailand – Vietnam’s U22 football team secured a crucial 2-0 victory against Malaysia in their final Group B match of the SEA Games 33 men’s football tournament, guaranteeing their advancement to the semi-finals as group leaders. Goals from centre-back Nguyen Hieu Minh and defender Pham Minh Phuc sealed the win for the Vietnamese side.

The tightly contested match, held at Rajamangala Stadium, saw a determined Malaysian side pushing to secure at least a draw to secure their place in the next round. However, a solid defensive performance by Vietnam, coupled with clinical finishing, proved decisive.

Coach Kim Sang-sik made strategic substitutions throughout the game, bringing on fresh legs in the form of Van Thuan, Cong Phuong, and Xuan Bac to replace Thai Son, Viktor, and Van Khang. The substitutions proved effective in maintaining Vietnam’s momentum and stifling Malaysia’s attacking threats.

The match wasn’t without its tense moments, with Thai Son receiving a yellow card early in the game. While Malaysia pressured with efforts that included a near breakthrough by Hasim Haiqal, a solid defensive play by Hiểu Minh, who blocked the shot that sent the ball out of bounds, helped keep Malaysia from scoring.

With this victory, Vietnam now advances to the semi-finals, where they will face the Philippines. A draw would have seen them face a tougher challenge against hosts Thailand. Malaysia, despite the loss, also advances to the semi-finals.

Prior to the match, Coach Kim emphasized his team’s determination to secure a victory, treating the match as a “knock-out” stage encounter. The win over Malaysia reinforces Vietnam’s strong record against their rivals in recent SEA Games tournaments.

The win was important since, as the article mentioned, the game also involved teams from Group C and an outcome where Vietnam and Malaysia drew would see Indonesia eliminated.

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