Football

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam suffered their second major defeat at the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Cup early on Wednesday, losing 0-8 to Australia in Amman, Jordan.

Samatha Kerr and Hayley Raso of Australia scored twice each for the Matildas. Earlier, Kyah Simon opened the score with a simple finish just eight minutes into the game.

Alanna Kennedy headed home Elise Kellond-Knight’s corner to extend the lead at the 18th mark. Chloe Logarzo punished Vietnamese goalkeeper Khổng Thị Hằng, who made a blunder, with the easiest goal of her career and scored 3-0 after 21 minutes.

The other goal was by Emily van Egmond before the break, completing Australia’s historic win at the tournament.

Việt Nam’s defeat has quashed the team’s hope of making it to the final four, but they can still reach the playoff for the fifth place and earn a ticket to FIFA Women’s World Cup if they defeat South Korea in their last group match on Friday.

“We lost to them in every angle---figure, tactics, strength and skill,” said Việt Nam’s coach Mai Đức Chung. “But my players showed their confidence in playing with each other and producing some excellent finishes.”

Chung said although Việt Nam had two months to prepare for the tournament, the team did not have competent rivals to sharpen their skills. 

He said although the chances for his team were unclear, the players were encouraged to give their best and never quit. 

Việt Nam, who had earlier lost 0-4 to Japan in their first match, now stand at the bottom of Group B.

Australia top the table with six points. They will next play defending champions Japan, who were tied with South Korea in a goalless match. — VNS