HÀ NỘI — The Việt Nam Football Federation (VFF) said security for the upcoming match between Việt Nam and Malaysia at the ongoing AFF Suzuki Cup will be strict, especially when it comes to the burning of flares.

The match will be held at Mỹ Đình National Stadium in Hà Nội on November 16 at 7:30pm. The clash between two title candidates highlights Group A. According to Lê Hoài Anh, VFF’s general secretary, security and safety are the most important things when hosting an event.

The VFF is worried that fans might try to use flares at the upcoming match. If this happens, VFF will be fined harshly and Việt Nam’s team will have to play at a neutral stadium.

“All areas with a high risk of flares as well and extremist fans will be recorded,” said Anh. “Anyone burning flares will be sent out of the stadium.”

The Hà Nội Police said it also had plans to ensure security for the game, including guiding fans to Mỹ Đình Stadium quickly. The Police will protect the football teams, referees and Malaysia’s fans.

The VFF said fans will be searched carefully at entrance gates to ensure flares will not appear during the match.

Fire fighters are also ready for the game. There will be at least two fire trucks at the stadium.

The demand for tickets to the match between Việt Nam and Malaysia has increased following Việt Nam’s 3-0 win over Laos on November 8.

The VFF sold tickets online and in person at the stadium with prices ranging from VNĐ150,000 (US$6.5) to VNĐ400,000 ($17). However, many fans were unable to secure tickets through legal means so they settled for buying them on the black market for a price tenfold the original value. — VNS