Football

Việt Nam (in red) defeated Chinese Taipei 4-0 in their opening match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers Group F on October 5 in Phú Thọ Province. — Photo courtesy of VFF

HÀ NỘI — Coach Nguyễn Quốc Tuấn was pleased with Việt Nam's 4-0 win over Chinese Taipei in the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers Group F on October 5 in Phú Thọ Province.

"I am happy with the result which came after players strictly followed our plan," said Tuấn at the post-match briefing.

"Chinese Taipei have the advantage of better body form and defensive play that made it difficult for us to find their net. It was the first match so players are still tense, leading to uncomfortable performances. However, all four goals were beautiful."

"I believe that this is a good start for my team and we will have better matches," he said.

Việt Nam pressed from the first blow of the referee's whistle at Việt Trì Stadium and were rewarded with the opener in the 19th minute with midfielder Bùi Hoàng Son finding the back of the net.

Chinese Taipei fought back but while they were able to prevent Việt Nam from scoring again, the equaliser eluded them.

Việt Nam had to wait until the 73rd minute for their second goal by midfielder Nguyễn Lê Phát, who also netted his second goal eight minutes to the end.

Nguyễn Hoàng Anh was put in the field and his goal in the 80th minute was sandwiched between Phát's winners.

On the visiting side, coach Tsai Wen Yi said his players were good and confident in the first half. But the second half was different. They could not block Việt Nam's attacks from both wings, conceding three goals in the last 20 minutes.

Tsai was impressed by the host players, especially captain Nguyễn Công Phương, who showed his amazing technique and ball control skills.

In another match of the group, Thailand beat Nepal 3-0.

The match started on a cautious note with both sides taking their time to settle.

Thailand slowly began to exert their dominance and took the lead in the 35th minute through forward Tontawan Puntamunee.

Nepal's hopes of fighting back were dashed when Tontawan scored his second in the 65th minute with substitute Thanakrit Jampalee capping the win in the 79th minute.

Thailand play Chinese Taipei next on Friday with Nepal to face hosts Việt Nam. — VNS