Nguyễn Văn Quyết (left) scored the winning goal for Việt Nam on Wednesday. — Photo VFF

HÀ NỘI — The Việt Nam national football team won 1-0 against the Philippines in their final match before the 2022 AFF Cup campaign begins.

The victory on Wednesday however, still showed some flaws in Việt Nam's play before the tournament.

Việt Nam are without Nguyễn Quang Hải who has only just returned from France, Nguyễn Hoàng Đức and Đoàn Văn Hậu are both unavailable because of injuries.

Hà Nội FC's captain, Nguyễn Văn Quyết returned to Việt Nam's starting lineup after almost three years and played in an uncommon role as a central midfielder.

Việt Nam started slowly, but soon gained full control of the game. Their first chance came in the 36th minute when Văn Quyết passed with the outside of his foot for Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh, who fired wide.

Three minutes later, Nguyễn Văn Toàn had a chance from distance, but his shot hit the woodwork.

The Philippines stayed deep and defended well, looking for a draw. Chances came for Nguyễn Tiến Linh, Phạm Tuấn Hải and Phan Văn Đức but none of these strikers could make the difference.

When everyone in Hằng Đẫy Stadium thought of a draw, in the 2nd minute of added time, Nguyễn Hải Huy found Văn Quyết in the left side of the Philippines' box. Quyết's cross was deflected by Paul Tabinas and curled to Kevin Hansen's top corner, sealing victory for the Golden Star Warriors.

Việt Nam ended their friendly run with two victories. They earlier beat former German champions Borussia Dortmund 2-1 at the Mỹ Đình Stadium.

Park Hang-seo's last dance at the 2022 AFF Cup will start on December 21 with a match against Laos in Vientiane. — VNS