Football

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam defended their title at the International U-19 Football Tournament, which ended on Friday in the Central Highland city of Pleiku.

During their last round match, the hosts came from behind to beat Mito Holyhock 2-1, marking a successful tournament where they won all four matches.

Hirata Kaito opened the scoring for the Japanese club during the 31st minute from close range, after receiving a perfect pass from the right wing.

It took around 10 minutes for the hosts to level the score, when Lê Văn Nam shot into the net.

Việt Nam attacked in the second half and their pressure paid dividends 10 minutes after the interval.

Nguyễn Hồng Sơn converted a corner kick into the second goal for the hosts.

The defensive midfielder, Sơn, with his outstanding performance, received the MVP of the match award and was also voted best player of the tournament.

Việt Nam walked away with a prize of US$10,000.

Mito Hollyhock, who achieved only one win this tournament, was ranked fourth and won the Fairplay Award.

FC Seoul, who finished their tournament two days ago, came second, with three wins and one loss. Their player, Jin Seonjun, was voted best goalkeeper.

In an early match yesterday, Hoàng Anh Gia Lai grabbed their first win, after beating Chonburi 4-3 in heavy rain.

Prior to the game, both teams were bottom of the table without a single win.

Chonburi’s Rachata Moraska opened the scoring in the 13th minute, and Chitsanuphong Choti made it a double near the end of the first half.

Lê Minh Bình scored a double in the second half, before Duy Kiên and Tiến Đạt netted their goals. Chonburi’s third goal was scored between the winning goals of Hoàng Anh Gia Lai.

Bình, with total of four goal, became the leading scorer. Hoàng Anh Gia Lai ranked third and enjoyed a bonus of $4,000. — VNS