Football

Vietnamese players celebrate the only goal in their 1-0 win against Hong Kong in a friendly match on June 15 in Hải Phòng. — VNA/VNS Photo

HẢI PHÒNG — Defender Quế Ngọc Hải’s goal from the penalty spot was all that was needed for Việt Nam to beat Hong Kong in a friendly game during the FIFA Days on June 15 at the Hải Phòng City's Lạch Tray Stadium.

It was the first time that an international football match of Việt Nam has been organised in the city and also the first official match of head coach Philippe Troussier taking charge of the senior squad. It created football fever in Hải Phòng in the lead up to the game.

The stadium was packed with thousands of spectators while many others who could not buy a ticket watched their beloved players from the terraces of surrounding houses.

In the first half, the Vietnamese players stormed into the Hong Kong team's area, applied high-pressing tactics, controlled the game, and sought ways to open the scoring.

However, they received strong resistance from their Hong Kong opponents who also applied the pressing style, seeking to break the Vietnamese defensive line.

The only goal came in the 31st minute when talented midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải was fouled in the box.

Captain Ngọc Hải calmly slotted the penalty home for Việt Nam. In the remaining minutes, Việt Nam made many substitutions using young players, who created a few chances but couldn’t turn them into goals.

Hong Kong also had some attacks but they were not effective. Their opportunities were denied by goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm and the crossbar.

Both teams engaged in a back-and-forth struggle, and there weren't many thrilling moments on the pitch.

No more goals were scored in the second half.

Việt Nam will play another friendly match against Syria at the Thiên Trường Stadium in the northern province of Nam Định on June 20. — VNS